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Rank in Irish (Céimíocht): Meaning, Pronunciation, Usage

‘céimíocht’ also means: distinction

The Irish for rank is céimíocht, a feminine noun.
Updated October 2026Report a mistake

How to say “rank” in Irish

Irish:
céimíocht
English:
rank, distinction
Word type:
noun
Gender:
feminine, third declension
Pronunciation:
“KAY-mee-ukht”  /ˈceːmʲiːəxt̪/
Various forms
Genitive singular:
céimíochta, na céimíochta (e.g. fear céimíochta, a man of rank)

What does “céimíocht” mean?

“Céimíocht” has two alternative meanings. The most common comes first.

rank
A position or standing in a graded order, such as a rank in the army or in society.Also: standing, position, grade.
1 other meaning: distinction
2distinction
High standing or eminence that sets a person apart from others.Also: eminence, prominence, dignity.

Other Irish words for rank: grád (grade)

“Céimíocht” with the article

Here is céimíocht after the article (an t-alt).

an chéimíocht
the rank
Lenition: c becomes ch after an (feminine noun)

“Céimíocht” in a sentence: Irish examples

Common Irish sentences using céimíocht, the Irish word for rank.

Bhí céimíocht ard aige san arm.
He held a high rank in the army.
Ní raibh suim aici sa chéimíocht.
She had no interest in rank.
Is duine céimíochta é sa phobal.
He is a person of standing in the community.
Fuair sí céimíocht nuair a ceapadh í ina breitheamh.
She gained distinction when she was appointed a judge.
Tá an chéimíocht sin tuillte go maith aige.
He has well earned that rank.
Bhain sé céimíocht amach i gcúrsaí polaitíochta.
He achieved prominence in politics.
Cailleann tú do chéimíocht má bhriseann tú na rialacha.
You lose your rank if you break the rules.

Other nouns in Irish

More everyday Irish nouns to learn next.

Rank in Irish: frequently asked questions

What is the Irish for rank?

The Irish for rank is céimíocht (pronounced “KAY-mee-ukht”). It’s a feminine noun. Depending on context it can also mean distinction.

How do you pronounce céimíocht in Irish?

Céimíocht is said like “KAY-mee-ukht” (IPA /ˈceːmʲiːəxt̪/).

Does céimíocht have a plural?

No plural form is given for céimíocht in the standard. Many abstract and mass nouns in Irish have no plural.

Does céimíocht have more than one meaning?

Yes. Céimíocht can mean rank or distinction, depending on context; the first is the most common.

Why does céimíocht change to chéimíocht or gcéimíocht?

Irish changes the start of some words after certain words. After mo (my) céimíocht becomes mo chéimíocht (lenition), and after ár (our) or i (in) it becomes ár gcéimíocht (eclipsis).

What is the difference between céimíocht and céim?

Céim is a step, degree or grade in general, while céimíocht refers to rank or standing, often social or military distinction.

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