gealach
/ˈɡ̊ʲal̪ˠəx/
The Gaelic word for moon is gealach.
Use gealach as a common noun to refer to a moon in a general sense.
Meaning: the natural satellite of planet Earth (noun)
Which one should you use?
While gealach is the common noun for any moon, A’ Ghealach is used specifically as a proper name when referring to the Earth's moon.
Is it said differently in some regions?
gealach is used in Scottish Gaelic.
Related words
How do you pronounce it?
/ˈɡ̊ʲal̪ˠəx/
Did you know?
- In Gaelic folklore, the moon is often associated with the 'Sìth' or fairy folk. Some legends suggest that certain lunar phases act as gateways for these supernatural beings to enter the human world.
- In traditional Scottish Gaelic poetry, the gealach is frequently used as a metaphor for a pale or beautiful face, often appearing in romantic songs to describe a lover's complexion.
- The term A’ Ghealach changes its spelling from gealach due to a grammatical feature called lenition. This happens because the moon is treated as a feminine noun when used as a proper name.
Examples in context
- Tha an gealach cho brèagha anocht.The moon is so beautiful tonight.
Example conversation
Finlay and Isla are looking at the night sky.
- FinlayAn robh thu ag aireamh na gealach?Were you looking at the moon?
- IslaCha robh, a Finlaigh.I wasn't, Finlay.
- FinlayTha i gu math brígh.It is very beautiful.
- IslaTha thu ceart, tha i goirde.You are right, it is lovely.
Sources
- Wiktionary, “moon” translations and entries gealach, CC BY-SA 4.0, dump of 2026-09-26.
