HeyRuaHow to say “thinness” in Irish
- Irish:
- caoile
- English:
- thinness, slenderness (of a consonant)
- Word type:
- noun
- Gender:
- feminine, fourth declension
- Pronunciation:
- “KEE-luh” /ˈkiːlʲə/
- Genitive singular:
- caoile, na caoile (e.g. tomhas na caoile, the degree of thinness)
What does “caoile” mean?
“Caoile” has two alternative meanings. The most common comes first.
- thinness
- The quality of being thin, narrow or slender.Also: slenderness, narrowness, leanness.
1 other meaning: slenderness (of a consonant)
- 2slenderness (of a consonant)
- In Irish grammar, the palatalised quality of a consonant, as opposed to broadness (leithne).Also: slenderness, palatalisation, slender quality.
“Caoile” with the article
Here is caoile after the article (an t-alt).
“Caoile” in a sentence: Irish examples
Common Irish sentences using caoile, the Irish word for thinness.
Other nouns in Irish
More everyday Irish nouns to learn next.
Thinness in Irish: frequently asked questions
What is the Irish for thinness?
The Irish for thinness is caoile (pronounced “KEE-luh”). It’s a feminine noun. Depending on context it can also mean slenderness (of a consonant).
How do you pronounce caoile in Irish?
Caoile is said like “KEE-luh” (IPA /ˈkiːlʲə/).
Does caoile have a plural?
No plural form is given for caoile in the standard. Many abstract and mass nouns in Irish have no plural.
Does caoile have more than one meaning?
Yes. Caoile can mean thinness or slenderness (of a consonant), depending on context; the first is the most common.
Why does caoile change to chaoile or gcaoile?
Irish changes the start of some words after certain words. After mo (my) caoile becomes mo chaoile (lenition), and after ár (our) or i (in) it becomes ár gcaoile (eclipsis).
How is 'caoile' different from 'tanaíocht'?
Both can mean thinness, but 'caoile' suggests slenderness or narrowness, while 'tanaíocht' is thinness of a layer, liquid or person in general.
