bēal an lae
The Irish word for aurora is bēal an lae.
This term refers to the atmospheric phenomenon known as an aurora.
Meaning: atmospheric phenomenon (noun)
Did you know?
- The phrase bēal an lae literally translates to 'mouth of the day'.
- While the English word 'aurora' comes from the Latin word for 'dawn', the Irish term focuses on the 'mouth' or opening of the day.
- The phrase bēal an lae treats the aurora as a herald, suggesting the light is the 'opening' through which the day arrives.
Example conversation
Niamh and Cian are looking at the night sky.
- NiamhCian, féach ar an spéir!Cian, look at the sky!
- CianAn é sin bēal an lae?Is that the aurora?
- NiamhTá, tá sé go hálainn.Yes, it is beautiful.
- CianNíor chonaic mé é choíste.I have never seen it before.
