HeyRuaHow to say “worm” in Irish
- Irish:
- péist
- English:
- worm, monster
- Word type:
- noun
- Gender:
- feminine, second declension
- Pronunciation:
- “paysht” /pʲeːʃtʲ/
- Genitive singular:
- péiste, na péiste (e.g. cac péiste, worm cast)
What does “péist” mean?
“Péist” has two alternative meanings. The most common comes first.
- worm
- A small, long, soft creature without legs that lives in soil or inside another animal.Also: earthworm, grub.
1 other meaning: monster
- 2monster
- A large fabulous beast, such as a dragon or serpent, found in stories and legends.Also: dragon, serpent, beast, reptile.
Other Irish words for worm: cuiteog (earthworm)
“Péist” with the article
Here is péist after the article (an t-alt).
“Péist” in a sentence: Irish examples
Common Irish sentences using péist, the Irish word for worm.
Other nouns in Irish
More everyday Irish nouns to learn next.
Worm in Irish: frequently asked questions
What is the Irish for worm?
The Irish for worm is péist (pronounced “paysht”). It’s a feminine noun. Depending on context it can also mean monster.
How do you pronounce péist in Irish?
Péist is said like “paysht” (IPA /pʲeːʃtʲ/).
Does péist have a plural?
No plural form is given for péist in the standard. Many abstract and mass nouns in Irish have no plural.
Does péist have more than one meaning?
Yes. Péist can mean worm or monster, depending on context; the first is the most common.
Why does péist change to phéist or bpéist?
Irish changes the start of some words after certain words. After mo (my) péist becomes mo phéist (lenition), and after ár (our) or i (in) it becomes ár bpéist (eclipsis).
What is the difference between 'péist' and 'cruimh'?
'Péist' is the general word for a worm, also a mythical monster, while 'cruimh' usually means a maggot or grub.
Does 'péist' only mean a small worm?
No, in folklore 'péist' is also a lake monster or serpent, as in 'ollphéist', a huge monster.
