Gaelic

American  

[gey-lik, gol-ik] / ˈgeɪ lɪk, ˈgɒl ɪk /

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.

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adjective

1. of or in Gaelic.

2. of or relating to the Gaels or their language.

Gaelic British  

/ ˈɡæl-, ˈɡeɪlɪk /

noun

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

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adjective

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

Other Word Forms

• anti-Gaelic
  adjective
• non-Gaelic
  adjective
• pro-Gaelic
  adjective

Etymology

Origin of Gaelic

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

Compare meaning

How does gaelic compare to similar and commonly confused words? Explore the most common comparisons:

• Gaelic vs. Celtic

Example Sentences

He has listed his high school in Hawaii as beneficiary on two of his brokerage accounts, so he’s certainly got a “grá” — that’s Gaelic for deep affection — for charitable endeavors.

From MarketWatch • May 20, 2026

He had a decision to make - Dorrian said "everyone was wanting a piece of him" and he was "under a lot of pressure" to select Gaelic football - which is an amateur sport.

From BBC • May 15, 2026

Coleman had also been called into Donegal's minor team, a massive honour for any underage Gaelic footballer with hopes of making it big.

From BBC • May 15, 2026

I played a lot of Gaelic football as a kid.

From BBC • Mar. 14, 2026

A few of the Gaelic ones revolted, who were quelled later, but in the main the people of England and the partisans like Robin were glad to settle down.

From "The Once and Future King" by T. H. White