HeyRuaHow to say “rust” in Irish
- Irish:
- meirg
- English:
- rust, irritability
- Word type:
- noun
- Gender:
- feminine, second declension
- Pronunciation:
- “MER-ig” /mʲeɾʲəɟ/
- Genitive singular:
- meirge, na meirge (e.g. dath na meirge, the colour of rust)
What does “meirg” mean?
“Meirg” has two alternative meanings. The most common comes first.
- rust
- The reddish-brown coating that forms on iron or steel when it is exposed to air and water.Also: corrosion, oxidation.
1 other meaning: irritability
- 2irritability
- A cranky, peevish or crusty mood or temperament in a person.Also: crustiness, peevishness, crankiness.
“Meirg” with the article
Here is meirg after the article (an t-alt).
“Meirg” in a sentence: Irish examples
Common Irish sentences using meirg, the Irish word for rust.
Other nouns in Irish
More everyday Irish nouns to learn next.
Rust in Irish: frequently asked questions
What is the Irish for rust?
The Irish for rust is meirg (pronounced “MER-ig”). It’s a feminine noun. Depending on context it can also mean irritability.
How do you pronounce meirg in Irish?
Meirg is said like “MER-ig” (IPA /mʲeɾʲəɟ/).
Does meirg have a plural?
No plural form is given for meirg in the standard. Many abstract and mass nouns in Irish have no plural.
Does meirg have more than one meaning?
Yes. Meirg can mean rust or irritability, depending on context; the first is the most common.
Why does meirg change to mheirg?
After words like mo (my) and do (your) the first letter is lenited: mo mheirg. After ár (our) it stays ár meirg, because m does not take eclipsis.
How do I say something is rusty in Irish?
Say 'tá meirg air' (there is rust on it) or use the adjective 'meirgeach'. It is also used figuratively: 'tá meirg ar mo chuid Gaeilge' means my Irish is rusty.
Can meirg describe a person's mood?
Yes, it can mean irritability or crustiness, and 'meirgeach' can describe a peevish, cranky person.
