HeyRuaHow to say “while” in Irish
- Irish:
- scaitheamh
- English:
- while, spell
- Word type:
- noun
- Gender:
- masculine, first declension
- Pronunciation:
- “SKAH-hiv” /ˈskahəw/
- Plural:
- scaití (whiles)
- Genitive singular:
- scaithimh, an scaithimh (e.g. ar feadh scaithimh, for a while)
- Genitive plural:
- scaití, na scaití (e.g. i rith na scaití fada, during the long spells)
What does “scaitheamh” mean?
“Scaitheamh” has two alternative meanings. The most common comes first.
- while
- An indefinite period of time, usually fairly short.Also: spell, period, time, stretch.
“Scaitheamh” with the article
The plural of while in Irish is scaití. Here is scaitheamh after the article (an t-alt), in the singular and the plural.
“Scaitheamh” in a sentence: Irish examples
Common Irish sentences using scaitheamh, the Irish word for while.
Other nouns in Irish
More everyday Irish nouns to learn next.
While in Irish: frequently asked questions
What is the Irish for while?
The Irish for while is scaitheamh (pronounced “SKAH-hiv”). It’s a masculine noun and the plural is scaití. Depending on context it can also mean spell.
How do you pronounce scaitheamh in Irish?
Scaitheamh is said like “SKAH-hiv” (IPA /ˈskahəw/).
What is the plural of while in Irish?
The plural of scaitheamh is scaití; with the article, na scaití means “the whiles”. The genitive plural is scaití, as in i rith na scaití fada (during the long spells).
Does scaitheamh have more than one meaning?
Yes. Scaitheamh can mean while or spell, depending on context; the first is the most common.
How does 'scaitheamh' differ from 'tamall' and 'seal'?
All three mean 'a while'; 'tamall' is the most widespread, 'seal' often suggests a turn or stint, and 'scaitheamh' is especially common in Connacht and Munster speech.
