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 Word Forms

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

Previously a keen soccer and Gaelic footballer, it took him several years to build up the strength and confidence to get back into competitive sports.

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Mr Donald said "loads of people" knew about his dispute with Gavin, who previously managed the Dublin men's Gaelic football team.

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The quote hangs framed in the pub opposite the tree, which hosts Gaelic live music events.

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"And then I heard randomly, because I'm from the Isle of Skye, that a Gaelic TV series was being shot there."

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It was an identity that helped bind them to their co-religionists on the rest of the island, particularly in the fields of Gaelic sport and culture.

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