tarbh
/ˈt̪ˠɑɾˠəvˠ/masculine
The Irish word for bull is tarbh.
tarbh is a masculine noun used to refer to an uncastrated adult male bovine.
Meaning: uncastrated adult male bovine (noun)
Related words
How do you pronounce it?
/ˈt̪ˠɑɾˠəvˠ/
Did you know?
- In Irish folklore, the tarbh often appears as a symbol of strength and virility, sometimes featuring as a shapeshifting creature in ancient myths.
- In certain rural Irish dialects, tarbh can be used as a mild insult to describe a man who is clumsy or overly aggressive.
- The Irish word tarbh shares a common ancient ancestor with the English word 'taurus' used in astrology.
Examples in context
- tarbh róinBull sealThis example shows the term tarbh used in the context of a bull seal.
- Tá an tarbh sa gáradán.The bull is in the yard.
Example conversation
Cian and Niamh are visiting a farm.
- CianSeo an tarbh is nua sa choir.This is the newest bull in the herd.
- NiamhIs iontach é an tarbh sin!That bull is wonderful!
- CianTá sé an-láidir.He is very strong.
- NiamhTá mé sárobreach leis.I am impressed with him.
Sources
- Wiktionary, “bull” translations and entries tarbh, CC BY-SA 4.0, dump of 2026-09-26.
- Word origins: Wiktionary entries tarbh, CC BY-SA 4.0.
- Example sentences: Wiktionary CC BY-SA 4.0.
