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Relationship in Irish (Caidreamh): Meaning, Pronunciation, Usage

‘caidreamh’ also means: intimacy · interaction

The Irish for relationship is caidreamh, a masculine noun.
Updated October 2026Report a mistake

How to say “relationship” in Irish

Irish:
caidreamh
English:
relationship, intimacy, interaction
Word type:
noun
Gender:
masculine, first declension
Pronunciation:
“KAD-ruv”  /ˈkadʲɾʲəw/
Various forms
Genitive singular:
caidrimh, an chaidrimh (e.g. oifigeach caidrimh phoiblí, public relations officer)

What does “caidreamh” mean?

“Caidreamh” has three alternative meanings. The most common comes first.

relationship
A connection or dealings between people, groups or countries.Also: relations, dealings, association.
2 other meanings: intimacy or interaction
2intimacy
Close companionship or familiar association with someone; also used of sexual relations.Also: companionship, intercourse, fellowship.
3interaction
The act of associating or interacting with others; the verbal noun of the verb caidrigh.Also: association, socialising, communication.

Other Irish words for relationship: gaol (relationship)

“Caidreamh” with the article

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

an caidreamh
the relationship
No change after an

“Caidreamh” in a sentence: Irish examples

Common Irish sentences using caidreamh, the Irish word for relationship.

Tá caidreamh gairmiúil againn.
We have a professional relationship.
Tá an caidreamh idir an dá thír go maith.
Relations between the two countries are good.
Oibríonn sí i gcaidreamh poiblí.
She works in public relations.
Ní raibh mórán caidrimh agam leis riamh.
I never had much to do with him.
Chuir an argóint deireadh lena gcaidreamh.
The argument ended their relationship.
Tá caidreamh maith aici lena comharsana.
She has a good relationship with her neighbours.
Bhí caidreamh láidir idir an múinteoir agus na daltaí.
There was a strong bond between the teacher and the pupils.

Other nouns in Irish

More everyday Irish nouns to learn next.

Relationship in Irish: frequently asked questions

What is the Irish for relationship?

The Irish for relationship is caidreamh (pronounced “KAD-ruv”). It’s a masculine noun. Depending on context it can also mean intimacy or interaction.

How do you pronounce caidreamh in Irish?

Caidreamh is said like “KAD-ruv” (IPA /ˈkadʲɾʲəw/).

Does caidreamh have a plural?

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

Does caidreamh have more than one meaning?

Yes. Caidreamh can mean relationship, intimacy or interaction, depending on context; the first is the most common.

Why does caidreamh change to chaidreamh or gcaidreamh?

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

What is the difference between caidreamh and gaol?

Gaol usually means a family relationship or kinship, while caidreamh means dealings or association between people, organisations or countries, as in caidreamh poiblí.

How do I say 'I have nothing to do with him'?

You can say 'Níl aon chaidreamh agam leis', using caidreamh with the preposition le.

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