HeyRua Get the app

Rung in Irish (Runga): Meaning, Pronunciation, Usage

‘runga’ also means: banister

The Irish for rung is runga, a masculine noun (plural rungaí).
Updated October 2026Report a mistake

How to say “rung” in Irish

Irish:
runga
English:
rung, banister
Word type:
noun
Gender:
masculine, fourth declension
Pronunciation:
“RUNG-guh”  /ˈɾˠʊŋgə/
Various forms
Plural:
rungaí (rungs)
Genitive singular:
runga, an runga (e.g. barr an runga, the top of the rung)
Genitive plural:
rungaí, na rungaí (e.g. líon na rungaí, the number of rungs)

What does “runga” mean?

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

rung
A crosspiece that forms a step of a ladder, or a bar between the legs of a chair.Also: ladder rung, step, crosspiece.
2 other meanings: banister
2banister
An upright post or rail supporting the handrail of a stairs.Also: baluster, stair rail.
3rung
A level or position in a scale or hierarchy.Also: level, step, grade.

“Runga” with the article

The plural of rung in Irish is rungaí. Here is runga after the article (an t-alt), in the singular and the plural.

an runga
the rung
No change after an
na rungaí
the rungs
Plural: no change after na

“Runga” in a sentence: Irish examples

Common Irish sentences using runga, the Irish word for rung.

Tá runga briste ar an dréimire seo.
There's a broken rung on this ladder.
Seas ar an runga íochtair go fóill.
Stand on the bottom rung for now.
Bhí a chos ar runga na cathaoireach.
His foot was on the rung of the chair.
Tá ocht rungaí ar an dréimire.
The ladder has eight rungs.
Choinnigh sí greim ar na rungaí go daingean.
She held on tightly to the rungs.
Thosaigh sé ar an runga is ísle sa chomhlacht.
He started on the lowest rung in the company.
Cuir lámh ar an runga agus tú ag dul suas.
Put a hand on the rung as you go up.

Other nouns in Irish

More everyday Irish nouns to learn next.

Rung in Irish: frequently asked questions

What is the Irish for rung?

The Irish for rung is runga (pronounced “RUNG-guh”). It’s a masculine noun and the plural is rungaí. Depending on context it can also mean banister.

How do you pronounce runga in Irish?

Runga is said like “RUNG-guh” (IPA /ˈɾˠʊŋgə/).

What is the plural of rung in Irish?

The plural of runga is rungaí; with the article, na rungaí means “the rungs”. The genitive plural is rungaí, as in líon na rungaí (the number of rungs).

Does runga have more than one meaning?

Yes. Runga can mean rung or banister, depending on context; the first is the most common.

What is the difference between 'runga' and 'céim'?

'Runga' is the physical bar of a ladder or chair, while 'céim' is a step in general, including a stair step or a stage of progress; both can be used figuratively for a level.

Learn Irish by
actually speaking it

Learn everyday Irish words like runga through guided conversation with Rua.

7-day free trial. Cancel anytime.

The HeyRua app home screen