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Transformation in Irish (Claochlú): Meaning, Pronunciation, Usage

‘claochlú’ also means: deterioration

The Irish for transformation is claochlú, a masculine noun (plural claochluithe). Ag claochlú is transforming, from the verb claochlaigh.
Updated October 2026Report a mistake

How to say “transformation” in Irish

Irish:
claochlú
English:
transformation, deterioration
Word type:
noun (verbal noun)
Verbal noun of:
claochlaigh, to transform (ag claochlú, transforming)
Gender:
masculine
Pronunciation:
“KLEE-khloo”  /ˈkl̪ˠiːxl̪ˠuː/
Various forms
Plural:
claochluithe (transformations)
Genitive singular:
claochlaithe, an chlaochlaithe (e.g. próiseas an chlaochlaithe, the process of transformation)
Genitive plural:
claochluithe, na gclaochluithe (e.g. sraith na gclaochluithe, the series of transformations)

What does “claochlú” mean?

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

transformation
A complete change in form, nature or appearance; the verbal noun of the verb claochlaigh.Also: change, alteration, conversion, metamorphosis.
1 other meaning: deterioration
2deterioration
A change for the worse, a decline or weakening of something.Also: decline, decay, worsening.

“Claochlú” as a verbal noun

After ag, claochlú means transforming: it is the verbal noun of the verb claochlaigh (to transform). A noun that follows it goes into the genitive.

agat
+
claochlúverbal noun
=
ag claochlútransforming

“Claochlú” with the article

The plural of transformation in Irish is claochluithe. Here is claochlú after the article (an t-alt), in the singular and the plural.

an claochlú
the transformation
No change after an
na claochluithe
the transformations
Plural: no change after na

“Claochlú” in a sentence: Irish examples

Common Irish sentences using claochlú, the Irish word for transformation.

Tháinig claochlú mór ar an mbaile le blianta beaga.
The town has changed greatly in recent years.
Ní raibh súil agam leis an gclaochlú sin.
I didn't expect that transformation.
Is léir claochlú ina dhearcadh ó shin.
A change in his outlook is clear since then.
Rinne an t-eolaí staidéar ar chlaochlú an ábhair.
The scientist studied the transformation of the material.
Bhí an aimsir i gclaochlú ar feadh an lae.
The weather was changing all day.
Chonaiceamar claochluithe éagsúla sa tsochaí.
We saw various changes in society.
Labhair sí faoi luas an chlaochlaithe.
She spoke about the speed of the change.

Other nouns in Irish

More everyday Irish nouns to learn next.

Transformation in Irish: frequently asked questions

What is the Irish for transformation?

The Irish for transformation is claochlú (pronounced “KLEE-khloo”). It’s a masculine noun and the plural is claochluithe. Depending on context it can also mean deterioration.

How do you pronounce claochlú in Irish?

Claochlú is said like “KLEE-khloo” (IPA /ˈkl̪ˠiːxl̪ˠuː/).

What is the plural of transformation in Irish?

The plural of claochlú is claochluithe; with the article, na claochluithe means “the transformations”. The genitive plural is claochluithe, as in sraith na gclaochluithe (the series of transformations).

Does claochlú have more than one meaning?

Yes. Claochlú can mean transformation or deterioration, depending on context; the first is the most common.

Why does claochlú change to chlaochlú or gclaochlú?

Irish changes the start of some words after certain words. After mo (my) claochlú becomes mo chlaochlú (lenition), and after ár (our) or i (in) it becomes ár gclaochlú (eclipsis).

What is the difference between 'claochlú' and 'athrú'?

'Athrú' is the everyday word for any change, while 'claochlú' suggests a deeper transformation of form or nature, and can also mean a change for the worse.

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