caileag mhath
The Gaelic phrase for "good girl" is caileag mhath.
This phrase is used to describe a girl who is well-behaved or virtuous.
What does it mean word for word?
The phrase is composed of caileag (girl) and mhath (good).
Is it said differently in some regions?
In parts of Ireland, you may encounter the form cailín maith to mean "good girl".
Did you know?
- The root of caileag is related to the Latin word 'pellex' and the Ancient Greek 'pallakḗ', which both referred to concubines.
- The spelling of caileag mhath changes because the word 'good' undergoes a 'lenition' when it follows the noun.
- The diminutive ending -ag in caileag is a common way in Gaelic to create a sense of smallness or endearment.
Examples in context
- Is caileag mhath a th' ann.She is a good girl.
Example conversation
Angus is praising Catriona for helping her younger sister.
- AngusTha thu gu math còir, a Chatriona.You are very helpful, Catriona.
- CatrionaTapadh leat, a Angus.Thank you, Angus.
- AngusIs tupleadh thu na caileag mhath.You are such a good girl.
- CatrionaTha mi dìreach a' cuideachadh.I am just helping.
Sources
- Word origins: Wiktionary entries caileag, CC BY-SA 4.0.
