HeyRuaHow to say “sting” in Irish
- Irish:
- cealg
- English:
- sting, treachery
- Word type:
- noun
- Gender:
- feminine
- Pronunciation:
- “KAL-ug” /ˈcaləɡ/
- Plural:
- cealga
- Genitive singular:
- ceilge, na ceilge (e.g. pian na ceilge, the pain of the sting)
- Genitive plural:
- cealg, na gcealg (e.g. rian na gcealg, the mark of the stings)
What does “cealg” mean?
“Cealg” has two alternative meanings. The most common comes first.
- sting
- The sharp pointed part of an insect such as a bee or wasp, or the wound it makes.Also: stinger, insect sting, bee sting.
1 other meaning: treachery
- 2treachery
- Deceit or guile used to trick or betray someone.Also: guile, deceit, wile, trick.
“Cealg” with the article
The plural of sting in Irish is cealga. Here is cealg after the article (an t-alt), in the singular and the plural.
“Cealg” in a sentence: Irish examples
Common Irish sentences using cealg, the Irish word for sting.
Other nouns in Irish
More everyday Irish nouns to learn next.
Sting in Irish: frequently asked questions
What is the Irish for sting?
The Irish for sting is cealg (pronounced “KAL-ug”). It’s a feminine noun and the plural is cealga. Depending on context it can also mean treachery.
How do you pronounce cealg in Irish?
Cealg is said like “KAL-ug” (IPA /ˈcaləɡ/).
What is the plural of sting in Irish?
The plural of cealg is cealga; with the article, it is na cealga. The genitive plural is cealg, as in rian na gcealg (the mark of the stings).
Does cealg have more than one meaning?
Yes. Cealg can mean sting or treachery, depending on context; the first is the most common.
Why does cealg change to chealg or gcealg?
Irish changes the start of some words after certain words. After mo (my) cealg becomes mo chealg (lenition), and after ár (our) or i (in) it becomes ár gcealg (eclipsis).
What is the difference between cealg and dealg?
Cealg is an insect's sting, or treachery, while dealg is a thorn or a pin. They look and sound alike, so take care.
What does the adjective cealgach mean?
Cealgach, from cealg, means treacherous, deceitful or stinging, as in duine cealgach, a deceitful person.
