HeyRuaHow to say “sleep” in Irish
- Irish:
- suan
- English:
- sleep, drowsiness
- Word type:
- noun
- Gender:
- masculine, first declension
- Pronunciation:
- “soo-un” /sˠuən̪ˠ/
- Genitive singular:
- suain, an tsuain (e.g. am suain, bedtime)
What does “suan” mean?
“Suan” has two alternative meanings. The most common comes first.
- sleep
- A state of sleep, especially deep, peaceful or restful sleep; slumber.Also: slumber, repose, rest.
“Suan” with the article
Here is suan after the article (an t-alt).
“Suan” in a sentence: Irish examples
Common Irish sentences using suan, the Irish word for sleep.
Other nouns in Irish
More everyday Irish nouns to learn next.
Sleep in Irish: frequently asked questions
What is the Irish for sleep?
The Irish for sleep is suan (pronounced “soo-un”). It’s a masculine noun. Depending on context it can also mean drowsiness.
How do you pronounce suan in Irish?
Suan is said like “soo-un” (IPA /sˠuən̪ˠ/).
Does suan have a plural?
No plural form is given for suan in the standard. Many abstract and mass nouns in Irish have no plural.
Does suan have more than one meaning?
Yes. Suan can mean sleep or drowsiness, depending on context; the first is the most common.
Why does suan change to shuan?
After words like mo (my) and do (your) the first letter is lenited: mo shuan. After ár (our) it stays ár suan, because s does not take eclipsis.
What is the difference between 'suan' and 'codladh'?
'Codladh' is the everyday word for sleep, while 'suan' is more literary and suggests deep, peaceful slumber, as in 'ina shuan' (in slumber).
How do I say someone is sleeping using 'suan'?
Use the possessive with 'i': 'Tá sé ina shuan' (he is asleep), 'Tá sí ina suan' (she is asleep).
