HeyRuaHow to say “rag” in Irish
- Irish:
- giobal
- English:
- rag, tattered garment
- Word type:
- noun
- Gender:
- masculine, first declension
- Pronunciation:
- “GIB-ul” /ˈɟɪbəl̪ˠ/
- Plural:
- giobail (rags)
- Genitive singular:
- giobail, an ghiobail (e.g. boladh an ghiobail, the smell of the rag)
- Genitive plural:
- giobal, na ngiobal (e.g. mála na ngiobal, the rag bag)
What does “giobal” mean?
“Giobal” has two alternative meanings. The most common comes first.
- rag
- A piece of old, torn cloth, often used for cleaning.Also: cloth, duster, scrap of cloth.
“Giobal” with the article
The plural of rag in Irish is giobail. Here is giobal after the article (an t-alt), in the singular and the plural.
“Giobal” in a sentence: Irish examples
Common Irish sentences using giobal, the Irish word for rag.
Other nouns in Irish
More everyday Irish nouns to learn next.
Rag in Irish: frequently asked questions
What is the Irish for rag?
The Irish for rag is giobal (pronounced “GIB-ul”). It’s a masculine noun and the plural is giobail. Depending on context it can also mean tattered garment.
How do you pronounce giobal in Irish?
Giobal is said like “GIB-ul” (IPA /ˈɟɪbəl̪ˠ/).
What is the plural of rag in Irish?
The plural of giobal is giobail; with the article, na giobail means “the rags”. The genitive plural is giobal, as in mála na ngiobal (the rag bag).
Does giobal have more than one meaning?
Yes. Giobal can mean rag or tattered garment, depending on context; the first is the most common.
Why does giobal change to ghiobal or ngiobal?
Irish changes the start of some words after certain words. After mo (my) giobal becomes mo ghiobal (lenition), and after ár (our) or i (in) it becomes ár ngiobal (eclipsis).
What is the difference between 'giobal' and 'ceirt'?
Both mean rag; 'ceirt' is very common for a cleaning cloth, while 'giobal' also suggests tattered clothing, as in 'ina ghiobail' (in rags).
