HeyRuaHow to say “spring” in Irish
- Irish:
- earrach
- English:
- spring, spring work
- Word type:
- noun
- Gender:
- masculine, first declension
- Pronunciation:
- “AR-ukh” /ˈaɾˠəx/
- Plural:
- earraigh
- Genitive singular:
- earraigh, an earraigh (e.g. tús an earraigh, the beginning of spring)
- Genitive plural:
- earrach, na n-earrach (e.g. teacht na n-earrach, the coming of the springs)
What does “earrach” mean?
“Earrach” has two alternative meanings. The most common comes first.
- spring
- The season of the year between winter and summer, traditionally February to April in Ireland.Also: springtime, spring season.
“Earrach” with the article
The plural of spring in Irish is earraigh. Here is earrach after the article (an t-alt), in the singular and the plural.
“Earrach” in a sentence: Irish examples
Common Irish sentences using earrach, the Irish word for spring.
Other nouns in Irish
More everyday Irish nouns to learn next.
Spring in Irish: frequently asked questions
What is the Irish for spring?
The Irish for spring is earrach (pronounced “AR-ukh”). It’s a masculine noun and the plural is earraigh. Depending on context it can also mean spring work.
How do you pronounce earrach in Irish?
Earrach is said like “AR-ukh” (IPA /ˈaɾˠəx/).
What is the plural of spring in Irish?
The plural of earrach is earraigh; with the article, it is na hearraigh. The genitive plural is earrach, as in teacht na n-earrach (the coming of the springs).
Does earrach have more than one meaning?
Yes. Earrach can mean spring or spring work, depending on context; the first is the most common.
Why does earrach sometimes have a t or h in front of it?
Irish nouns beginning with a vowel take a prefix after certain words: an t-earrach (the spring), a hearrach (her spring), a n-earrach (their spring).
Does 'earrach' also mean a spring of water?
No, 'earrach' is only the season. A water spring is 'fuarán' or 'tobar', and a metal spring is 'sprionga'.
When does spring start in the Irish tradition?
Traditionally 'an t-earrach' begins on 1 February, Lá Fhéile Bríde, and covers February, March and April.
