Alba
/ˈaˈl̪ˠa.pə/
Alba is the Gaelic name for Scotland.
Alba is the proper name used to refer to the country of Scotland.
How do you pronounce it?
The word has three syllables, with the stress on the first syllable. The IPA is /ˈaˈl̪ˠa.pə/.
Did you know?
- The word Alba is frequently used as a political shorthand for Scottish independence on stickers and banners.
- The word 'Albion' and 'Alba' both likely trace back to a root meaning 'white', potentially referring to the white cliffs of the coast seen from the sea.
- Many people mistakenly believe Alba is derived from the Latin word for white, 'albus', but it actually descends from a much older Celtic root shared with Old Irish.
Example conversation
Finlay and Isla are talking about their travel plans.
- FinlayCàite a bheil thu a' dol?Where are you going?
- IslaTha mi a' falbh gu Alba.I am leaving for Scotland.
- FinlayIs e Alba an àite sgoinneil a th' ann.Scotland is a wonderful place.
- IslaTha mi a' coimhead air adhart ris.I am looking forward to it.
Sources
- Pronunciation: Wiktionary entry Alba, CC BY-SA 4.0, dump of 2026-09-26.
