How to Say “Butterfly” in Scottish Gaelic

By Kaitlyn Diana • Updated October 16, 2026

dealan-dè

butterfly

In Scottish Gaelic a butterfly is dealan-dè. The word is masculine and the plural is dealain-dè.

You use it like any noun, for example dealan-dè brèagha for "a beautiful butterfly".

Meaning: flying insect with large wings (noun)

Did you know?

The plural of dealan-dè is dealain-dè.

Examples in context

Tha dealan-dè air a’ bhlàth.
There is a butterfly on the flower.
Chunnaic mi dealan-dè brèagha.
I saw a beautiful butterfly.

Example conversation

Anna and her grandfather Iain walk in a garden on Skye.

Anna

Seall, a sheanair, dealan-dè!
Look, grandpa, a butterfly!
Iain

Tha e brèagha.
It is beautiful.
Anna

Tha e air a’ bhlàth.
It is on the flower.

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About The Author

Kaitlyn Diana

Dia dhuit! My name's Kaitlyn—a learner of different cultures, writer, Gaelic aficionado, and a lover of linguistics! When I'm not penning down comprehensive guides on how to say an array of unique words in Gaelic or cuddling up with my cat (whom I call 'cat' in Gaelic, of course!), you'll find me strolling along the beaches of Galway, taking in the salty air, and admiring the beautiful gaeltachts. I have a penchant for the little things in life—sunrises, snowdrops, and butterflies. I live for the joy of sharing my love for the Gaelic language with you!

Kaitlyn DianaHelp make this guide better. Spot a mistake, know another way to say it, or have an example from real life? Share it below.

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