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Storytelling in Irish (Scéalaíocht): Meaning, Pronunciation, Usage

‘scéalaíocht’ also means: talebearing

The Irish for storytelling is scéalaíocht, a feminine noun.
Updated October 2026Report a mistake

How to say “storytelling” in Irish

Irish:
scéalaíocht
English:
storytelling, talebearing
Word type:
noun
Gender:
feminine, third declension
Pronunciation:
“SHKAY-lee-ukht”  /ˈʃceːlˠiəxt̪ˠ/
Various forms
Genitive singular:
scéalaíochta, na scéalaíochta (e.g. traidisiún na scéalaíochta, the storytelling tradition)

What does “scéalaíocht” mean?

“Scéalaíocht” has two alternative meanings. The most common comes first.

storytelling
The art or activity of telling stories, especially traditional tales.Also: narration, telling stories, folk tales.
1 other meaning: talebearing
2talebearing
Spreading stories or gossip about other people.Also: gossip, telling tales, rumour.

“Scéalaíocht” with the article

Here is scéalaíocht after the article (an t-alt).

an scéalaíocht
the storytelling
No change after an

“Scéalaíocht” in a sentence: Irish examples

Common Irish sentences using scéalaíocht, the Irish word for storytelling.

Is breá le mo sheanathair scéalaíocht cois tine.
My grandfather loves telling stories by the fire.
Tá an scéalaíocht beo fós sa cheantar seo.
Storytelling is still alive in this area.
Bhí oíche scéalaíochta sa halla aréir.
There was a storytelling night in the hall last night.
Tá suim mhór aici i scéalaíocht na Gaeltachta.
She has a great interest in Gaeltacht storytelling.
Bhí sé ag scéalaíocht orainn leis an múinteoir.
He was telling tales about us to the teacher.
Bhuaigh sí duais as a cuid scéalaíochta.
She won a prize for her storytelling.

Other nouns in Irish

More everyday Irish nouns to learn next.

Storytelling in Irish: frequently asked questions

What is the Irish for storytelling?

The Irish for storytelling is scéalaíocht (pronounced “SHKAY-lee-ukht”). It’s a feminine noun. Depending on context it can also mean talebearing.

How do you pronounce scéalaíocht in Irish?

Scéalaíocht is said like “SHKAY-lee-ukht” (IPA /ˈʃceːlˠiəxt̪ˠ/).

Does scéalaíocht have a plural?

No plural form is given for scéalaíocht in the standard. Many abstract and mass nouns in Irish have no plural.

Does scéalaíocht have more than one meaning?

Yes. Scéalaíocht can mean storytelling or talebearing, depending on context; the first is the most common.

What does 'ag scéalaíocht ar dhuine' mean?

It means telling tales or gossiping about someone, for example 'Bhí sé ag scéalaíocht orm', he was telling tales on me.

How is 'scéalaíocht' different from 'seanchas'?

'Scéalaíocht' is storytelling in general, while 'seanchas' refers to traditional lore, history and tales passed down orally.

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