The Gaelic language in Ireland – Gaeilge, or Irish as it's known locally – is a Celtic language and one of “the oldest and most historic written languages in the world” according to Foras na Gaeilge.

In 2026, if you are in Ireland, the language is almost exclusively referred to as "Irish" or by its native name, "Gaeilge" (pronounced Gwal-gah). The term "Gaelic" is technically a broader linguistic category that includes Irish, Scottish Gaelic, and Manx. In a 2026 cultural context, calling the language "Gaelic" while in Ireland is often seen as a mark of a tourist or an outsider; the Irish people are very specific about the distinction. Scottish Gaelic is a sister language, but it is distinct from the Irish language. The Irish government and the "Gaeltacht" (Irish-speaking regions) communities emphasize the use of "Gaeilge" to reinforce the national identity. While "Irish Gaelic" is sometimes used abroad to differentiate it from other Celtic tongues, within the Emerald Isle, the language of the people is simply "Irish," and it remains a core part of the 2026 school curriculum and national heritage.