trídhathach
The English phrase tricolour is translated into Irish as trídhathach.
The term refers to a flag consisting of three stripes of different colours. It can be used as a noun to name the object or as an adjective to describe something that is three-coloured.
Meaning: A flag with three stripes of different colours (noun)
What does it mean word for word?
The word trídhathach is a compound formed from trí, meaning three and dhathach, meaning colored or having colours.
Related words
Did you know?
- The concept of a 'tricolour' in Ireland is uniquely political, as the specific combination of green, white, and orange was chosen to represent peace between different historical factions, a nuance not captured by the literal word 'trídhathach'.
- The word dhathach comes from the root dath, which is the same word used for 'dye' or 'tint' in a textile context.
- The word 'trí' in 'trídhathach' follows a specific rule where it causes the following word to undergo lenition, which is why the 'd' in 'dathach' becomes 'dh'.
Examples in context
- Níos fearr liom an bratach trídhathach ná an chuid eile.I prefer the tricolour to the rest.
Example conversation
Niamh and Oisín are preparing for a parade.
- NiamhAn bhfuil an trídhathach réidh?Is the tricolour ready?
- OisínTá, Niamh, tá sé anseo.Yes, Niamh, it is here.
- NiamhTapaigh an trídhathach dom, le do thoil.Grab the tricolour for me, please.
- OisínSeo é an trídhathach, a Niamh.Here is the tricolour, Niamh.
Sources
- Wiktionary, “tricolour” translations, CC BY-SA 4.0, dump of 2026-09-26.
