HeyRuaHow to say “singing” in Irish
- Irish:
- canadh
- English:
- singing, chanting
- Word type:
- noun (verbal noun)
- Verbal noun of:
- can, to sing (ag canadh, singing)
- Gender:
- masculine
- Pronunciation:
- “KAN-uh” /ˈkanˠə/
- Genitive singular:
- canta, an chanta (e.g. am canta, time for singing)
What does “canadh” mean?
“Canadh” has two alternative meanings. The most common comes first.
- singing
- The act of singing; it is the verbal noun of the verb 'can' (sing).Also: chanting, sing, chant.
1 other meaning: chanting
- 2chanting
- The act of chanting or reciting something, such as a prayer or verse, in a rhythmic way.Also: recitation, intoning.
Other Irish words for singing: amhránaíocht (singing)
“Canadh” as a verbal noun
After ag, canadh means singing: it is the verbal noun of the verb can (to sing). A noun that follows it goes into the genitive.
“Canadh” with the article
Here is canadh after the article (an t-alt).
“Canadh” in a sentence: Irish examples
Common Irish sentences using canadh, the Irish word for singing.
Other nouns in Irish
More everyday Irish nouns to learn next.
Singing in Irish: frequently asked questions
What is the Irish for singing?
The Irish for singing is canadh (pronounced “KAN-uh”). It’s a masculine noun. Depending on context it can also mean chanting.
How do you pronounce canadh in Irish?
Canadh is said like “KAN-uh” (IPA /ˈkanˠə/).
Does canadh have a plural?
No plural form is given for canadh in the standard. Many abstract and mass nouns in Irish have no plural.
Does canadh have more than one meaning?
Yes. Canadh can mean singing or chanting, depending on context; the first is the most common.
Why does canadh change to chanadh or gcanadh?
Irish changes the start of some words after certain words. After mo (my) canadh becomes mo chanadh (lenition), and after ár (our) or i (in) it becomes ár gcanadh (eclipsis).
How do I say 'singing a song' in Irish?
You can say 'ag canadh amhráin' or, very commonly, 'ag casadh amhráin'; both mean singing a song.
