"Sláinte" is a feminine noun, and when preceded by the definate article "an" it becomes "an tsláinte". "Táinte is a plural noun that means heards of cattle, as George informs us. But it also can be used to dnote wealth, "Tá na táinte aige". (He is very wealthy). Dineen's Dictionary giver several other meanings for "táinte" including this: "na táinte póg" (millions of kisses) When I was in Ireland in 2009, I heard "Sláinte" used a few times by a group holding a birthday party in Newcastle, Co. Down. But never a mention of it or any of it in the 9 or 10 countie I visited south of the Border. Go mbeadh an tsláinte agus na táinte agaibh choíche (always).

At the risk of being--deservedly--labeled a pedant, I have to mention a little error in the above. The phrase is not "Is fearr an slainte na an tainte", but rather "... na tainte". The word is actually plural, and means "herds of cattle". In an agricultural society such as Ireland was, herds of cattle equate to wealth. A minor error. The more significant misinformation is the claim that Irish people use the term "Slainte" as a toast when drinking. They don't. They say "Cheers". I don't how often in Ireland I was the only one who said "Slainte", everyone else using the English term "Cheers". The Irish--they avoid even using one word of their ancient language.

I always learn so much. I'm glad your here.