HeyRuaHow to say “winking” in Irish
- Irish:
- caochadh
- English:
- winking, blinding, blocking
- Word type:
- noun (verbal noun)
- Verbal noun of:
- caoch, to wink (ag caochadh, winking)
- Gender:
- masculine
- Pronunciation:
- “KEE-khoo” /ˈkiːxə/
- Genitive singular:
- caochta, an chaochta (e.g. i bhfaiteadh an chaochta, in the blink of a wink)
What does “caochadh” mean?
“Caochadh” has three alternative meanings. The most common comes first.
- winking
- The verbal noun of caoch: the act of winking or blinking an eye.Also: wink, blinking, blink.
2 other meanings: blinding or blocking
- 2blinding
- The act of blinding someone or dazzling their eyes, also the verbal noun of caoch.Also: dazzling.
- 3blocking
- The act of closing up or blocking something such as a hole or a drain, also the verbal noun of caoch.Also: closing up, choking.
Other Irish words for winking: sméideadh (wink)
“Caochadh” as a verbal noun
After ag, caochadh means winking: it is the verbal noun of the verb caoch (to wink). A noun that follows it goes into the genitive.
“Caochadh” with the article
Here is caochadh after the article (an t-alt).
“Caochadh” in a sentence: Irish examples
Common Irish sentences using caochadh, the Irish word for winking.
Other nouns in Irish
More everyday Irish nouns to learn next.
Winking in Irish: frequently asked questions
What is the Irish for winking?
The Irish for winking is caochadh (pronounced “KEE-khoo”). It’s a masculine noun. Depending on context it can also mean blinding or blocking.
How do you pronounce caochadh in Irish?
Caochadh is said like “KEE-khoo” (IPA /ˈkiːxə/).
Does caochadh have a plural?
No plural form is given for caochadh in the standard. Many abstract and mass nouns in Irish have no plural.
Does caochadh have more than one meaning?
Yes. Caochadh can mean winking, blinding or blocking, depending on context; the first is the most common.
Why does caochadh change to chaochadh or gcaochadh?
Irish changes the start of some words after certain words. After mo (my) caochadh becomes mo chaochadh (lenition), and after ár (our) or i (in) it becomes ár gcaochadh (eclipsis).
What is the difference between caochadh and sméideadh?
Caochadh is winking or blinking the eye, while sméideadh can be a wink but also a nod or beckoning gesture. 'Sméid sé orm' and 'chaoch sé orm' can both mean 'he winked at me'.
