beithíoch
standard
The Irish word closest to "beast" is beithíoch. It can mean a large animal, a head of cattle or, of a person, a brute. It is also called ainmhí and arracht.
Meaning: a large or wild animal (noun)
Ways to say it
| Gaelic | Note |
|---|---|
| beithíoch | standard |
| ainmhí | animal |
| arracht | monster |
Which one should you use?
Ainmhí is the neutral word for "animal". Arracht means "monster" and suits the beast of a story or film.
How does it change in a sentence?
The plural of beithíoch is beithígh.
Did you know?
- In older Irish beithíoch was often used for cattle, which were the main measure of wealth in early Ireland.
Examples in context
- Is beithíoch mór é an tarbh sin.That bull is a big beast.
- Bhí arracht sa scéal.There was a monster in the story.
Example conversation
Farmer Pádraig and his nephew Darragh look at a bull in a field in Kerry.
- DarraghFéach ar an mbeithíoch sin!Look at that beast!
- PádraigNá téigh in aice leis.Do not go near him.
- DarraghNí rachaidh mé, geallaim.I will not, I promise.
