cú faoil
The Gaelic word for wolfhound is cú faoil.
Meaning: dog (noun)
Did you know?
- Historically, the breed was nearly extinct until it was revived in the 19th century by people who used ancient Gaelic descriptions to recreate the 'hound of the Celts'.
- In Irish mythology, the term cú is often used as a poetic title for heroes, such as the legendary 'Cú Chulainn' whose name means 'Hound of Culann'.
- Ancient Gaelic kinship systems sometimes used the term cú to describe a foster-son, treating the relationship as one of fierce, lifelong protection.
Example conversation
Finlay and Catriona are looking at a dog in a park.
- FinlaySeo cú faoil go hálainn!This is a beautiful wolfhound!
- CatrionaTá sé an-mhór, a Finlaigh.He is very big, Finlay.
- FinlayAn bhfuil cú faoil agat féin?Do you have a wolfhound yourself?
- CatrionaNí hea, ach ba mhaith liom ceann.No, but I would like one.
