Gaelic Words

For those interested in the cultures of Ireland and Scotland, or those who plan to visit those parts of the world, learning more about Gaelic words will likely be of interest.

Both Scottish and Irish Gaelic are still living languages, although their importance relates more to their cultural, historical significance than on the number of people who speak them. Linguistically, Scottish Gaelic and Irish Gaelic are closely related, but speakers of one language are not likely to understand the language of the other.

Today, there are approximately 60,000 speakers of Scottish Gaelic and roughly the same number of Irish Gaelic speakers. Both languages are currently in decline, as every successive generation produces fewer fluent speakers. The active regions of Scottish Gaelic are primarily in the northern most regions of Scotland, whereas Irish Gaelic is mostly concentrated in the western parts of the republic.

The online resources YourDictionary provides deal with various aspects of Gaelic words and, therefore, will be useful to varying people with diverse interests. Some sites are oriented towards Scottish Gaelic, while some are Irish Gaelic focused. Some have a linguistic aim, while others are geared towards the needs of the traveler. Wherever your interest in Gaelic words stems from, you should be able to find information that is useful to you in the sites listed below.

Online Resources for Gaelic Words

  • Gaelic Words in English - This site provides a detailed list of words in Scottish Gaelic and Irish Gaelic listed beside their English equivalents. For words that are not commonly known, definitions are also provided.
  • Words and Phrases in Irish Gaelic – This list of Gaelic words from Earth Family lists terms for seasons, family, phrases, color, numbers, and common phrases in Irish Gaelic.
  • Pronouncing Gaelic Words - The Internet provides many lists of words in Gaelic for your reading, but learning how to pronounce the words accurately is important if you ever wish to communicate in Gaelic. This excellent Web site covers vowels, accents, and where to stress words as well as lenition or aspiration to mark different parts of speech in Gaelic.
  • Irish Sayings – Irish Sayings is a fun Web site that provides audio clips of witty, irreverent Irish sayings. The sayings are available in three different dialects: Munster, Ulster, and Connacht. The site provides a handful of clips for free, but provides many more for people who pay a fee and become members of the site.
  • Tattoo Ideas: Gaelic Words and Phrases – Gaelic words and phrases have become increasingly popular in the tattoo community. If you are interested in getting a Gaelic inspired tattoo, check out this site for information, suggestions, and photos.
  • Irish Phrases - Ireland Information has an extensive list of Irish phrases that deal with days of the week, months, years, colors, numbers, everyday greetings, and much more. The site lists the phrase, how it is pronounced, and the meaning.
  • Visit Ireland Guide - A brief article called "Gaelic Words You Need to Know" can be found at the Visit Ireland Guide. This Web site is clearly geared towards the tourist, and excellent information can be found here if you plan to see some of old Ireland in the near future.
  • Ibiblio – This Gaelic homepage is dedicated to the culture and language of the Gales. Information of the Celts, Gaelic music, general Celtic language and much more is provided here.
  • A Beginner's Guide to Irish Gaelic Pronunciation – This site has detailed linguistic information on the language rules of Irish Gaelic. Divided into categories such as vowels, consonants, diphthongs, accent, double consonants, and exceptions, this well designed site covers a wide range of information in a clear, concise format.

Other Options

Libraries and museums whose collections pertain to Scotland and Ireland will sometimes feature manuscripts or other historical information on Gaelic words. Explore some of the cultural institutions in your area, including the colleges and universities, to see if you can uncover more resources with which to study the Gaelic languages.