Irish is the official language of the Republic of Ireland and is also called Gaeilge.
Irish is a Goidelic Celtic language related to Scottish Gaelic and Manx. It is one of Ireland’s indigenous languages and has a long literary history extending from early medieval inscriptions and manuscripts to modern poetry, fiction, broadcasting, and education.
The Constitution of Ireland gives Irish the status of the national language and first official language, while English is recognized as a second official language. Irish is taught in schools and is used especially in Gaeltacht areas, where it remains a community language. The language also has official status in the European Union.
Irish should not be confused with Ulster Scots, another language tradition found on the island, or with Scottish Gaelic, which is related but distinct. Irish spelling reflects historical sound changes, so written forms can look less familiar to learners than their modern pronunciation.