HeyRuaHow to say “thumb” in Irish
- Irish:
- ordóg
- English:
- thumb, big toe, claw
- Word type:
- noun
- Gender:
- feminine, second declension
- Pronunciation:
- “OHR-dohg” /ˈoːɾˠd̪ˠoːɡ/
- Genitive singular:
- ordóige, na hordóige (e.g. ionga na hordóige, the thumbnail)
What does “ordóg” mean?
“Ordóg” has three alternative meanings. The most common comes first.
- thumb
- The short thick first digit of the hand, set apart from the other fingers.Also: pollex.
2 other meanings: big toe or claw
- 2big toe
- The largest toe of the foot, usually called 'ordóg coise'.Also: great toe.
- 3claw
- The claw or pincer of a crab, lobster or similar shellfish.Also: pincer.
“Ordóg” with the article
Here is ordóg after the article (an t-alt).
“Ordóg” in a sentence: Irish examples
Common Irish sentences using ordóg, the Irish word for thumb.
Other nouns in Irish
More everyday Irish nouns to learn next.
Thumb in Irish: frequently asked questions
What is the Irish for thumb?
The Irish for thumb is ordóg (pronounced “OHR-dohg”). It’s a feminine noun. Depending on context it can also mean big toe or claw.
How do you pronounce ordóg in Irish?
Ordóg is said like “OHR-dohg” (IPA /ˈoːɾˠd̪ˠoːɡ/).
Does ordóg have a plural?
No plural form is given for ordóg in the standard. Many abstract and mass nouns in Irish have no plural.
Does ordóg have more than one meaning?
Yes. Ordóg can mean thumb, big toe or claw, depending on context; the first is the most common.
Why does ordóg sometimes have a t or h in front of it?
Irish nouns beginning with a vowel take a prefix after certain words: an ordóg (the thumb), a hordóg (her thumb), a n-ordóg (their thumb).
How do I say 'big toe' in Irish?
Use 'ordóg coise', literally 'thumb of the foot'; 'ordóg' alone normally means the thumb of the hand.
How do I say someone is 'under the thumb'?
Say 'faoi ordóg ag duine', for example 'Tá sé faoi ordóg aici', he is under her thumb.
