Word Nerd: Aoibhneas

Aoibhneas (pronounced eevnass) is an Irish Gaelic word that translates to mean or refer to the joy we feel from external things such as music, song, scenery and good weather. Aoibhneas is to fill our senses with the world around us. To hear the music, smell the sweet, fresh air, feel the soft, crisp water, let our eyes feast on the beauty of nature on an early Spring day, when the weather is gentle, the colors blooming, the bird song hopeful, the air a kiss – that is aoibhneas. Aoibhneas is the joy caused by external forces and it’s partner áthas (AW-hass) is joy that arising from internal forces (yes, that’s a word nerd bonus word!). Together aoibhneas and áthas create a harmony in the soul that causes our spirits to soar.

Nature gives aoibhneas in so many varied ways. A scent, a vista, a song, a dream – in the seen and the unseen. ~ Ella

I have a very deep affinity for Irish Gaelic words, since they are a part of my heritage (and not just because I happened to be born on St. Patrick’s Day – that’s just a lovely coincidence, tee-hee!). Something about hearing Gaelic strikes a cord deep within my soul, a memory from ages and life’s long, long ago. It’s a feeling of aoibhneas for me, which is perfect in so many ways!

Namaste ~ Ella

*Check out the Word Nerd Index and my Word Nerd Pinterest Board for other superb words!

** If there’s a word you’d like to see added to the Word Nerd roster, please feel free to contact me or suggest it in the comments – I love feedback and recommendations!