How to Say "Shamrock" in Irish (Gaeilge)

The Irish word for shamrock is seamróg (singular) or seamróga (plural).

Pronunciation Guide

• seamróg → SHAM-rohg (rhymes with "shamrog")
• seamróga → SHAM-roh-guh

Stress on second syllable; "ao" = long "ee" sound in Munster, "ay" in Connacht/Ulster.

Etymology & Cultural Context

• Root: seamair (clover) + óg (young/small) = "little clover"
• Traditional species: Trifolium dubium (lesser clover) or Trifolium repens (white clover)
• St. Patrick link: Legend says he used three-leafed shamrock to explain the Holy Trinity.
• Not four-leaf clover! That's seamair mhór (big clover) – lucky charm, distinct symbol.

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