dadaidh
masculine
The Gaelic word for daddy is dadaidh. If unsure, use dadaidh. Wiktionary also lists boban.
Meaning: (informal, usually childish) father (noun)
Ways to say it
| Gaelic | Note |
|---|---|
| dadaidh | masculine |
| boban | masculine |
This term is used as an informal way to say father, often in a childish context.
Which one should you use?
The masculine noun dadaidh is the default form. The word boban is also a masculine form used for the same meaning.
Did you know?
- The term boban shares a linguistic lineage with words for 'doll' or 'little person' in other Celtic contexts, emphasizing the smallness of the subject.
- While dadaidh is common, the word boban is a diminutive that can also be used as a term of endearment for a small boy, not just a child's name for a father.
- In some Gaelic-speaking regions, the rhythm of how you say dadaidh changes depending on whether you are calling out to him or simply talking about him.
Examples in context
- Madainn mhath, a athair!Good morning, father!
- Daidí, tha gaol agam ort!Daddy, I love you!
- Dia duit, dadaí!Hello, daddy!
Example conversation
A young child is talking to his mother in the kitchen.
- AngusA bheil dadaidh an seo?Is daddy here?
- CatrionaChan eil e an seo.He is not here.
- AngusNuair a thig dadaidh dhachaig?When will daddy come home?
- CatrionaTighidh e a dhìreach.He will be here soon.
Sources
- Wiktionary, “daddy” translations and entries dadaidh, boban, CC BY-SA 4.0, dump of 2026-09-26.
