HeyRuaHow to say “wax” in Irish
- Irish:
- céir
- English:
- wax, earwax
- Word type:
- noun
- Gender:
- feminine, fifth declension
- Pronunciation:
- “kayr” /ceːɾʲ/
- Plural:
- céaracha (waxes)
- Genitive singular:
- céarach, na céarach (e.g. coinneal chéarach, a wax candle)
- Genitive plural:
- céaracha, na gcéaracha (e.g. airíonna na gcéaracha, the properties of the waxes)
What does “céir” mean?
“Céir” has two alternative meanings. The most common comes first.
- wax
- A soft substance made by bees or from oil, used for candles, polish and sealing.Also: beeswax, candle wax, polish.
1 other meaning: earwax
- 2earwax
- The waxy substance that forms in the ear (céir chluaise).Also: cerumen.
“Céir” with the article
The plural of wax in Irish is céaracha. Here is céir after the article (an t-alt), in the singular and the plural.
“Céir” in a sentence: Irish examples
Common Irish sentences using céir, the Irish word for wax.
Other nouns in Irish
More everyday Irish nouns to learn next.
Wax in Irish: frequently asked questions
What is the Irish for wax?
The Irish for wax is céir (pronounced “kayr”). It’s a feminine noun and the plural is céaracha. Depending on context it can also mean earwax.
How do you pronounce céir in Irish?
Céir is said like “kayr” (IPA /ceːɾʲ/).
What is the plural of wax in Irish?
The plural of céir is céaracha; with the article, na céaracha means “the waxes”. The genitive plural is céaracha, as in airíonna na gcéaracha (the properties of the waxes).
Does céir have more than one meaning?
Yes. Céir can mean wax or earwax, depending on context; the first is the most common.
Why does céir change to chéir or gcéir?
Irish changes the start of some words after certain words. After mo (my) céir becomes mo chéir (lenition), and after ár (our) or i (in) it becomes ár gcéir (eclipsis).
How do I say 'wax candle' in Irish?
Use the genitive as an adjective: coinneal chéarach, 'a wax candle'.
