Bailey
The Irish word for 'bailey' is Bailey.
The term refers to the space contained by the outer wall of a castle.
Meaning: space contained by the outer wall of a castle (noun)
Did you know?
- If you were looking for a bailey in an archaeological context, you might find the term cathair used. While often translated as 'city' or 'town' today, in ancient Irish it frequently refers to a stone fort or a single fortified enclosure.
- In Irish place names, the term baile (meaning 'town' or 'home') is often confused by learners with bailey, though they are etymologically distinct.
- While bailey refers to the castle ward, the Irish word caiseal describes a stone fort that often served the same functional purpose before the arrival of medieval castles.
Example conversation
Conor and Niamh are visiting an old castle.
- ConorSeo an Bailey, a Niamh.This is the bailey, Niamh.
- NiamhTá sé go hálainn anseo.It is beautiful here.
- ConorBhí go leor daoine sa Bailey.There were many people in the bailey.
- NiamhTá an baile seo an-sean.This castle is very old.
