Celtic
/ˈkɛl.tɪk/noun
Relating to the Celts, their languages, or their cultures.
Did you know?The word ultimately comes from Greek forms like *Keltoi* and *Keltikós*, used by ancient writers for certain continental peoples, but the exact origin of the tribal name itself is still uncertain.
Etymological Timeline
Ancient Greek
Greek
Κελτοί (Keltoí)
“A name used by Greek writers for certain peoples of western and central Europe.”
Ancient Greek
Greek
Κελτικός (Keltikós)
“Pertaining to the Celts.”
Latin
Latin
Celtae / Celticus
“Celts / Celtic, borrowed from Greek usage.”
16th Century
English
Celtic
“Relating to the Celts or their languages and peoples.”
Modern English
English
Celtic
“Relating to the Celtic peoples, languages, and cultures of Ireland, Scotland, Wales, Brittany, Cornwall, and the Isle of Man.”