ceannasaí
/can̪ˠəˈsˠiː/
The Irish word for boss is ceannasaí.
Ceannasaí refers to a person in charge.
Meaning: person in charge (noun)
What does it mean word for word?
The word is derived from ceann, meaning 'head', combined with a suffix to denote a person who performs an action or holds a position, effectively meaning 'leader', 'head' or 'chief'.
Which one should you use?
Bainisteoir is typically used in professional settings or corporate environments, while ceannaire translates to 'leader' or 'manager' and is used in formal contexts.
How do you pronounce it?
/can̪ˠəˈsˠiː/
Did you know?
- While ceannasaí sounds authoritative, in many Irish social circles, calling someone a 'boss' by using the English loanword 'boss' is actually a very common, informal way to show friendly respect.
- While ceannasaí means 'boss', the word ceann is also used in Irish to refer to the 'head' of a nail.
- In Irish, the term for a boss like ceannasaí emphasizes 'headship' or position, whereas English terms often carry a connotation of 'ownership' or 'control'.
Examples in context
- Gabh mo leithscéal, a bainisteoir.Excuse me, boss.
- Dia dhuit, a cheannaire.Hello, leader.
Example conversation
Saoirse and Conor are in the office.
- SaoirseCá bhfuil an ceannasaí?Where is the boss?
- ConorTá sí i measbórd.She is in a meeting.
- SaoirseAn bhfuil sí gearrfa?Is she annoyed?
- ConorNíl mé cinnte.I am not sure.
Sources
- Pronunciation: Wiktionary entry ceannasaí, CC BY-SA 4.0, dump of 2026-09-26.
