Gaelic: meaning, definitions and examples

🏴
Add to dictionary

Gaelic

 

[ ˈɡeɪlɪk ]

Noun / Adjective
Context #1 | Noun

language

Gaelic refers to any of the languages of the Celts in Ireland or Scotland; used by the Celts before the Romans' arrival in Europe.

Synonyms

Celtic language, Celtic tongue.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

arrow down
Word Description / Examples
Gaelic

Similar to 'Gaelic', this also refers specifically to the languages spoken in Scotland or Ireland. It is interchangeable with 'Gaelic' and used commonly in both everyday life and academic discussions.

  • The Gaelic language is an important part of Irish culture.
  • She is studying Scottish Gaelic.
Celtic language

This term is more formal and academic, often used in scholarly works. It refers broadly to any of the languages in the Celtic branch, which includes Irish, Welsh, Breton, and others.

  • The study of Celtic languages includes Irish and Welsh.
  • Celtic languages have a rich history.
Celtic tongue

A poetic and less common variant, used in literature, speeches, or when one wants to add an archaic or romantic flavor to the language. It often refers to the same group of languages as 'Celtic language'.

  • Legends tell of the ancient Celtic tongues.
  • He spoke in the old Celtic tongue.

Examples of usage

  • The Gaelic language is still spoken in parts of Ireland.
  • She studied Scottish Gaelic in university.
Context #2 | Adjective

culture

Relating to the Gaels or their language.

Synonyms

Celtic, Irish, Scottish.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

arrow down
Word Description / Examples
Gaelic

This is a duplicate entry. The context and examples are the same as previously discussed Gaelic. Please refer to the first entry for this word.

Celtic

Used when referring to the group of related languages and cultures in areas like Ireland, Scotland, Wales, and Brittany. This term covers a broader cultural and historical context.

  • He has a deep interest in Celtic mythology.
  • The Celtic languages include Irish, Scottish Gaelic, and Welsh.
Irish

Used specifically to refer to the culture and language of Ireland. It is used to describe anything related to Ireland, including its people, language, and traditions.

  • She is learning the Irish language.
  • They celebrated an Irish wedding with traditional music.
Scottish

Used specifically to refer to the culture, people, and language of Scotland. Often used to describe anything originating from Scotland.

  • He wore a traditional Scottish kilt.
  • Scottish Gaelic is an ancient language spoken in the Highlands.

Examples of usage

  • He attended a Gaelic cultural festival.
  • The Gaelic music was enchanting.

Translations

Translations of the word "Gaelic" in other languages:

🇵🇹 Gaélico

🇮🇳 गेलिक

🇩🇪 Gälisch

🇮🇩 Gaelik

🇺🇦 Гельська

🇵🇱 Gaelicki

🇯🇵 ゲール語

🇫🇷 Gaélique

🇪🇸 Gaélico

🇹🇷 Galce

🇰🇷 게일어

🇸🇦 غيلية

🇨🇿 Gaelský

🇸🇰 Gaelský

🇨🇳 盖尔语

🇸🇮 Gelščina

🇮🇸 Gelíska

🇰🇿 Гэль тілі

🇬🇪 გალური

🇦🇿 Qal dili

🇲🇽 Gaélico

Etymology

The term 'Gaelic' originally referred to the language spoken by the Gaels, an ethnic group originating in Ireland and Scotland. Over time, it became more specifically associated with the Celtic languages spoken in these regions. The preservation of Gaelic languages and cultures has been a significant aspect of Irish and Scottish heritage, with efforts to promote and revitalize these languages ongoing to this day.

See also: Gael.