cara
cara is the Gaelic word for friend.
The term cara refers to a person with whom one has a close social relationship based on mutual affection. A related form, caraid, can also be used to mean comrade or pal.
Which one should you use?
While cara is a general term for friend, the phrase A charaid is specifically used to mean 'my friend'.
Did you know?
- In traditional Gaelic culture, the concept of friendship was often tied to the 'céile', a term that could mean both a spouse and a close companion.
- The word cara is a cognate of the Latin 'carus', which means 'dear' or 'beloved'. This connects the Gaelic concept of friendship directly to the ancient root of being cherished.
- Gaelic has several different words for 'friend' depending on the level of intimacy, whereas English often relies on adjectives like 'best' or 'close' to modify 'friend'.
Examples in context
- Ciamar a tha thu, a charaid?How are you, my friend?
- Is cara iontach í,She is a wonderful friend.
- Tá cara nua agam.I have a new friend.
