Gala
/ˈɡeɪ.lə/noun
A social occasion with special entertainments or performances, often for fundraising.
Did you know?The word 'gala' is believed to be derived from the Old French 'galer', which means 'to enjoy oneself'—a term that hints at its festive roots in merriment and joy.
Etymological Timeline
Late Middle English
English
gala
“A festive celebration or entertainment.”
Old French
French
galer
“To enjoy oneself, to revel.”
Ancient Greek
Greek
gala
“Milk, often associated with nourishment and abundance.”
Proto-Indo-European
PIE
*gʰel-
“To shine, to be bright or to rejoice.”