HeyRuaHow to say “wisdom” in Irish
- Irish:
- gaois
- English:
- wisdom, cleverness
- Word type:
- noun
- Gender:
- feminine, second declension
- Pronunciation:
- “geesh” /ɡiːʃ/
- Genitive singular:
- gaoise, na gaoise (e.g. fiacail forais na gaoise, the wisdom tooth)
What does “gaois” mean?
“Gaois” has two alternative meanings. The most common comes first.
- wisdom
- Good judgement and deep understanding gained through knowledge and experience.Also: sagacity, shrewdness, good sense.
1 other meaning: cleverness
- 2cleverness
- Sharpness of mind or shrewd intelligence in dealing with things.Also: intelligence, astuteness, shrewdness.
Other Irish words for wisdom: críonnacht (prudence), eagna (wisdom)
“Gaois” with the article
Here is gaois after the article (an t-alt).
“Gaois” in a sentence: Irish examples
Common Irish sentences using gaois, the Irish word for wisdom.
Other nouns in Irish
More everyday Irish nouns to learn next.
Wisdom in Irish: frequently asked questions
What is the Irish for wisdom?
The Irish for wisdom is gaois (pronounced “geesh”). It’s a feminine noun. Depending on context it can also mean cleverness.
How do you pronounce gaois in Irish?
Gaois is said like “geesh” (IPA /ɡiːʃ/).
Does gaois have a plural?
No plural form is given for gaois in the standard. Many abstract and mass nouns in Irish have no plural.
Does gaois have more than one meaning?
Yes. Gaois can mean wisdom or cleverness, depending on context; the first is the most common.
Why does gaois change to ghaois or ngaois?
Irish changes the start of some words after certain words. After mo (my) gaois becomes mo ghaois (lenition), and after ár (our) or i (in) it becomes ár ngaois (eclipsis).
What is the difference between 'gaois' and 'eagna'?
Both mean wisdom, but 'eagna' is more formal and often used of philosophical or divine wisdom, while 'gaois' suggests practical shrewdness and good sense.
