ceàrnag
The Gaelic word for square (shaped like a square) is ceàrnag.
The word ceàrnag is used as an adjective to describe something shaped like a square. It also functions as a noun to refer to an open space in a town, such as a town square.
Meaning: shaped like a square (adj)
Which one should you use?
While ceàrnag describes the shape or a town square, other terms are used for specific tools. Use ceàrn-righailt or cromadh-dìreach when referring to a square as a tool.
Related words
Did you know?
- In many Gaelic-speaking communities, the word 'square' is rarely used to describe a person's character, whereas in English, one might call a person 'square' to mean they are conventional or boring.
- The word ceàrnag is actually a diminutive form of ceàrn, meaning it is more closely related to the concept of a 'little corner' than a geometric square.
- The English word 'corner' and the Gaelic word 'ceàrn' share a distant Indo-European connection, as both relate to the idea of a bend or a turning point.
Examples in context
- Tha mi a' fuireach faisg air a' chearnag.I live near the square.
Example conversation
Isla and Callum are looking at a new table.
- IslaAm bosca seo ceàrnag, a bheil?Is this box square?
- CallumTha, tha e ceàrnag.Yes, it is square.
- IslaAn tuga iad an t-uachdar dhuinn?Will they give us the butter?
- CallumTha, tha e an seo.Yes, it is here.
Sources
- Pronunciation: Wiktionary entry ceàrnag, CC BY-SA 4.0, dump of 2026-09-26.
