tochas
The Irish word for 'to tickle' is tochas.
tochas is a verb meaning to touch someone or something in a way that causes a tingling sensation.
Meaning: to touch in a manner that causes tingling sensation (verb)
Which one should you use?
The verb tochas is used to describe the action, while the noun cigilt refers to the act of tickling itself.
Related words
Did you know?
- In some older literature, the term for a 'tickle' in the throat is described using a word that actually means 'to scratch' or 'to scrape'.
- If you want to describe a 'ticklish' person, Irish often uses a construction that translates more closely to 'someone who is sensitive to touch' rather than a single adjective.
- While English distinguishes between 'tickling' and 'itching', many Irish speakers use verbs related to 'itching' to describe a 'tickling' sensation, such as one caused by a feather.
Example conversation
Niamh is playing with Cian in the living room.
- NiamhAn tochas mé, a Chian!Tickle me, Cian!
- CianCeapaim go bhfuil tú an feargaí.I think you are angry.
- NiamhNílim, an tochas mé!I'm not, tickle me!
- CianTá an tochas seo anseo!This tickle is here!
