giliw
The Tagalog word for darling is giliw.
The term giliw means darling or beloved. While it can be used as a term of address, it is most frequently encountered in songs, poetry and formal literature rather than in casual spoken address between partners.
Meaning: often used as an affectionate term of address: person who is very dear to one (noun)
Which one should you use?
While giliw is a poetic way to say darling, the word mahal is a much more common way to address a darling or a loved one in modern, everyday Tagalog. For a shorthand version, you may see the informal term Mhal, which is a shortened form of mahal.
Is there a formal and an informal way to say it?
giliw is a literary and poetic term. For a more formal and slightly old-fashioned way to say my beloved, you can use Giliw ko. In contrast, Babe is an informal borrowed term used affectionately in close relationships and Mhal is an informal shorthand used to address someone as darling.
Did you know?
- While giliw is poetic, the common word mahal also means 'expensive' in Tagalog. This creates a linguistic link between the high value of an object and the deep value of a loved one.
- In traditional Filipino courtship, the word giliw appears frequently in Kundiman, a genre of melancholic love songs. These songs often express longing or unattainable love rather than happy domesticity.
- In very old Tagalog poetry, giliw can refer to a feeling of tenderness or affection rather than just the person being loved.
Examples in context
- Mahal ko, kamusta ka?My love, how are you?
- Lab, miss na kita!Darling, I miss you!
- Giliw ko, salamat sa pagmamahal mo sa akin.My beloved, thank you for loving me.
- Ikaw ang aking giliw.You are my darling.
- Salamat, aking giliw.Thank you, my darling.
Example conversation
Angela and Juan are saying goodbye before work.
- AngelaPaalam na, giliw.Goodbye, darling.
- JuanIngat ka sa biyahe.Take care on your way.
- AngelaSalamat, Juan.Thank you, Juan.
- JuanMahal kita, Angela.I love you, Angela.
