Wordy Wednesday: Let’s Have a Cwtch

I grew up in Wales and although I went to an English-speaking school, I had lessons in Welsh up to the age of thirteen. Twenty-five years later, I have only a handful of phrases and the ability, if drunk enough, to sing the national anthem.

However, as a word-nerd, I’m grateful to have been brought up in a bilingual society and for the gems added to my vocabulary.

Today I’d like to introduce you to one of my favourites: Cwtch. The closest translation is probably ‘safe place’ but it’s most often used to mean ‘cuddle’ (when you are creating a safe place with your arms).

Here’s the pronunciation (with thanks to Forvo.com):

http://www.sarah-painter.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/02/forvo_cy_1537683.mp3

 

It’s such an affectionate, friendly-sounding word and it takes me right back to my childhood.

Incidentally, the image is from a genius range of cards produced in Wales. You can buy online here.