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

Auld lang syne” is Scottish-Gaelic for “old long since,” or, more idiomatically, “days gone by” or “time long past.

From The Daily Beast

Another was Greg Jacob, a pro rugby player for Gaelic Athletic Association.

From The Daily Beast

Even the words vodka and whiskey are derived from the same word: “water” in Slavic and Gaelic, respectively.

From The Daily Beast

Even his mythological references came mostly from Greek and Gaelic legends.

From The Daily Beast

The most philosophical language is the Gaelic, which has no present tense—and the most useless.

From Project Gutenberg

Late in the evening we hailed the Gaelic shoars, and hankered in the arbor of Balong sir-mare.

From Project Gutenberg

The Mountain of the Mist, they say the words signify in the Gaelic tongue; and it is well named.

From Project Gutenberg

I have always thought of the shears by its Gaelic name, but it is past my power to spell it.

From Project Gutenberg

If you take a pair of shears, close and open them and then try to pronounce the sound you hear, you will have the Gaelic name.

From Project Gutenberg