How Well Do You Know Welsh Vocabulary?

Welsh, or Cymraeg, is a Celtic language native to Wales, a country rich in history, culture, and natural beauty. As one of the oldest living languages in Europe, Welsh has been spoken by the Welsh people for over 1,500 years, making it an integral part of the nation’s identity and heritage.

The Welsh language belongs to the Brythonic branch of the Celtic language family, which also includes Cornish and Breton. It is known for its melodic and lyrical quality, making it a unique and enchanting language to both native speakers and learners alike.

Throughout history, Welsh has faced challenges to its survival, especially during periods of political and cultural assimilation. However, the resilience of the Welsh people and their determination to preserve their language and culture has ensured that Welsh continues to thrive.

Efforts to promote Welsh education and media have been instrumental in reviving the language. Welsh-medium schools and Welsh-language television and radio channels play a significant role in nurturing the language among younger generations and fostering a strong sense of Welsh identity.

Welsh also holds official status in Wales, alongside English, following the Welsh Language Act of 1993. This recognition has further strengthened the language’s position in various aspects of public life, including government, education, and legal proceedings.

The Welsh language has left a profound mark on Welsh literature, with a rich tradition of poetry, prose, and drama. From the ancient tales of the Mabinogion to the works of renowned poets like Dylan Thomas and R.S. Thomas, Welsh literature has enriched the literary world and reflects the nation’s cultural pride and artistic expression.

In addition to Wales, Welsh is spoken by significant diaspora communities worldwide, particularly in the United States, Canada, and Argentina. This global reach connects Welsh speakers around the world and contributes to the language’s continued vitality and relevance in an increasingly interconnected world.

Below are a few languages that are related to Welsh in that they also belong to the Celtic branch of the Indo-European language family:

Many believe that it lacks the use of vowels, but there are more official vowels in Welsh than in English, with Welsh beating English 7 to 5.

Speaking of beating English out, following rules to eliminate Welsh, the language has seen a resurgence in the last 50 years, with active efforts being made to educate the people on Welsh culture and language.