How to Say “Scotland” in Scottish Gaelic

By Kaitlyn Diana • Updated October 16, 2026

Alba

standard

The Scottish Gaelic name for Scotland is Alba. A Scottish person is an Albannach.

Meaning: the country Scotland (proper noun)

Ways to say it

“scotland” in Gaelic
Gaelic	Note
Alba	standard
Albannach	Scottish person

Use à Alba for "from Scotland" and ann an Alba for "in Scotland". To welcome someone you can say Fàilte gu Alba!, "Welcome to Scotland!"

How do you pronounce it?

The stress is on the first syllable, so it sounds close to "AL-a-ba".

Did you know?

The Gaelic-language channel of the BBC is called BBC Alba, using the same word.

Examples in context

Tha mi à Alba.
I am from Scotland.
Tha gaol agam air Alba.
I love Scotland.

Example conversation

Calum greets a visitor named Emma at the airport in Edinburgh.

Calum

Fàilte gu Alba!
Welcome to Scotland!
Emma

Tapadh leibh.
Thank you.
Calum

A bheil thu air tadhal an seo roimhe?
Have you been here before?

⭐Share⭐ to appreciate human effort 🙏

About The Author

Kaitlyn Diana

Dia dhuit! My name's Kaitlyn—a learner of different cultures, writer, Gaelic aficionado, and a lover of linguistics! When I'm not penning down comprehensive guides on how to say an array of unique words in Gaelic or cuddling up with my cat (whom I call 'cat' in Gaelic, of course!), you'll find me strolling along the beaches of Galway, taking in the salty air, and admiring the beautiful gaeltachts. I have a penchant for the little things in life—sunrises, snowdrops, and butterflies. I live for the joy of sharing my love for the Gaelic language with you!

Kaitlyn DianaHelp make this guide better. Spot a mistake, know another way to say it, or have an example from real life? Share it below.

0 Comments

Newest

Oldest Most Voted