annwyl
/ˈanʊɨ̯l/
The Welsh word for dear is annwyl.
annwyl is used to describe someone or something as loved or lovable. It is more commonly used in written correspondence or poetic expressions.
Meaning: loved, lovable (adj)
How does it change in a sentence?
The adjective annwyl is invariable, meaning it does not change its form to agree with gender or number.
How do you pronounce it?
/ˈanʊɨ̯l/
Did you know?
- The root of annwyl is gŵyl, which can also mean 'festival' or 'holiday' in modern Welsh.
- The prefix an- in annwyl acts as an intensifier, whereas in many other Welsh words it functions like the English prefix 'un-' to create an opposite.
- While 'dear' in English can sometimes refer to an expensive price, the Welsh annwyl is strictly reserved for affection and cannot be used for cost.
Examples in context
- Mae'r anifeidau hyn yn annwyl iawn.These animals are very lovable.
Example conversation
Dylan and Catrin are talking about a family member.
- DylanYdych chi'n byw gyda chi'ch nain?Do you live with your grandmother?
- CatrinYdw, mae hi'n annwyl iawn.Yes, she is very dear.
- DylanMae'n dda cael byw gyda h Hunan.It is good to live with her.
- CatrinYdw, mae hi'n garedig iawn.Yes, she is very kind.
Sources
- Wiktionary, “dear” translations and entries annwyl, CC BY-SA 4.0, dump of 2026-09-26.
- Word origins: Wiktionary entries annwyl, CC BY-SA 4.0.
