Focal an Lae #86
The Word of the Day in Irish
Word: tánaiste (TAW-nish-chuh) [taːnis′t′ə]
Meaning: tánaiste = heir presumptive; second-in-command; deputy PM
Usage:
- Tánaiste came into English in the 16th century as “tanist”, the technical term for the successor to an Irish chieftain,
chosen during the current chieftain’s lifetime. This practice developed asa means of removing the strife of succession,
which otherwise left small states prey to opportunistic neighbors. Under the present Irish constitution, Tánaiste is the
title of the deputy prime minister, and acts on behalf of the Taoiseach if he/she is unavailable.
- Ainmníonn an Taoiseach an Tánaiste. (AN-uhm-nee-uhn uhn TEE-shuhkhuhn TAW-nish-chuh) = The Taoiseach names the Tánaiste.
- The word is also used metaphorically: Tá sé i dtánaiste dom in aois. (TAW shay uh DAW-nish-chuh duhm uhn EESH)
= He is nearly as old as I am.(lit., he is in second position to-me in age)
History: Old Irish “tánaise” comes from Common Celtic *tānihessio- (one who is awaited),
from Indo-European *to-ad-ni-sed-, from the root *sed- (to sit).
Scottish Gaelic: tànaiste