HeyRuaHow to say “serving” in Irish
- Irish:
- fónamh
- English:
- serving, usefulness
- Word type:
- noun (verbal noun)
- Gender:
- masculine, first declension
- Pronunciation:
- “FOH-nuv” /ˈfˠoːn̪ˠəvˠ/
- Genitive singular:
- fónaimh, an fhónaimh (e.g. easpa fónaimh, lack of usefulness)
What does “fónamh” mean?
“Fónamh” has two alternative meanings. The most common comes first.
- serving
- Fónamh is the verbal noun of the verb 'fóin', the act of serving someone or rendering service.Also: service, rendering service.
1 other meaning: usefulness
- 2usefulness
- The quality of being useful, fit or of benefit for a purpose.Also: utility, use, benefit.
Other Irish words for serving: seirbheáil (serving), friotháil (serving)
“Fónamh” with the article
Here is fónamh after the article (an t-alt).
“Fónamh” in a sentence: Irish examples
Common Irish sentences using fónamh, the Irish word for serving.
Other nouns in Irish
More everyday Irish nouns to learn next.
Serving in Irish: frequently asked questions
What is the Irish for serving?
The Irish for serving is fónamh (pronounced “FOH-nuv”). It’s a masculine noun. Depending on context it can also mean usefulness.
How do you pronounce fónamh in Irish?
Fónamh is said like “FOH-nuv” (IPA /ˈfˠoːn̪ˠəvˠ/).
Does fónamh have a plural?
No plural form is given for fónamh in the standard. Many abstract and mass nouns in Irish have no plural.
Does fónamh have more than one meaning?
Yes. Fónamh can mean serving or usefulness, depending on context; the first is the most common.
Why does fónamh change to fhónamh or bhfónamh?
Irish changes the start of some words after certain words. After mo (my) fónamh becomes m'fhónamh (lenition), and after ár (our) or i (in) it becomes ár bhfónamh (eclipsis).
What does 'ar fónamh' mean?
'Ar fónamh' means well or in good order, as in 'Tá mé ar fónamh' (I am well); 'níl sé ar fónamh' means he is not well.
