Irish
UK[ˈaɪrɪʃ]US[ˈaɪrɪʃ]
adj
Relating to Ireland, its people, or the Celtic language spoken in Ireland.
n
The Celtic language of Ireland.
n
The people of Ireland collectively.
Etymology
The word "Irish" originates from Old English Īras, the name for the inhabitants of Ireland, which itself was borrowed from Old Norse Írar. This Norse term likely derives from Old Irish Ériu, the name for Ireland, which is of Celtic origin. The suffix -ish, common in English to form adjectives of nationality (e.g., English, Danish), was attached in Old English, resulting in Īrisċ. Over time, the spelling and pronunciation evolved to the modern "Irish," which functions as both an adjective describing anything pertaining to Ireland and a noun for its people and language.
Analysis
The word "Irish" is a simplex form derived from the Old English name for Ireland and its people. It does not contain separable, productive morphemes in modern English.
Examples
She is proud of her Irish heritage.
He is learning to speak Irish.
The Irish are known for their storytelling tradition.