Gaelic

[ gey-lik, gol-ik ]

noun

1. a Celtic language that includes the speech of ancient Ireland and the dialects that have developed from it, especially those usually known as Irish, Manx, and Scottish Gaelic: Gaelic constitutes the Goidelic subbranch of Celtic.

adjective

1. of or in Gaelic.
2. of or relating to the Gaels or their language.

Gaelic

/ ˈɡæl-; ˈɡeɪlɪk /

noun

1. any of the closely related languages of the Celts in Ireland, Scotland, or (formerly) the Isle of Man Compare Goidelic

adjective

1. of, denoting, or relating to the Celtic people of Ireland, Scotland, or the Isle of Man or their language or customs

Other Words From

• an·ti-Gael·ic adjective
• non-Gael·ic adjective
• pro-Gael·ic adjective

Word History and Origins

Origin of Gaelic¹

First recorded in 1590–1600; Gael + -ic (representing Scots Gaelic Gaidhlig, derivative of Gaidheal Gael )

Example Sentences

This season Charlie Smyth, born in Northern Ireland, made the switch from Gaelic football to being a place-kicker for the New Orleans Saints.

From BBC

Set aside in the 9th century as a day to honor the Catholic saints, it succeeded an even older Gaelic celebration of transition between seasons and states of being.

From Los Angeles Times

Some believe it dates back to Halloween’s Gaelic origins, the festival of Samhain and burning witches on the last Friday before All Hallows’ Eve, while others say it is linked to Kilmarnock’s industrial past.

From BBC

She was named Gaelic singer of the year in the 2021 Scots Trad Music Awards, and has featured on soundtracks including Netflix's Outlaw King and Black Mirror.

From BBC

"I take the class and they've been talking to me since they were three and four so it doesn't really take anything out of them to chat to me in Gaelic," she said.

From BBC