welsh

verb \ ˈwelsh , ˈwelch \

variants: or less commonly welch play \ˈwelch\

Definition of welsh

welshed also welched; welshing also welching; welshes also welches

intransitive verb

1 informal, now sometimes offensive : to avoid payment —used with on

2 informal, now sometimes offensive : to break one's word : renege

—

welsher

noun, informal, now sometimes offensive

See welsh defined for English-language learners

Origin and Etymology of welsh

probably from Welsh, adjective

First Known Use: 1871

in the meaning defined at sense 1

Welsh

noun \ ˈwelsh , ˈwelch \

variants: or less commonly Welch play \ˈwelch\

Definition of Welsh

1 : the Celtic language of the Welsh people

2 plural in construction : the natives or inhabitants of Wales

3 : welsh pony

—

Welsh

or less commonly Welch adjective

See Welsh defined for English-language learners

See Welsh defined for kids

Origin and Etymology of welsh

Middle English Walsche, Welsse, from walisch, welisch, adjective, Welsh, from Old English wælisc, welisc foreign, British, Welsh, from Old English Wealh foreigner, Briton, Welshman, of Celt origin; akin to the source of Latin Volcae, a Celtic people of southeastern Gaul

First Known Use: before 12th century

in the meaning defined at sense 1