Pronunciation: [ɡˈaləɡlˌas] (IPA) 
The word "galloglass" is spelled with two "g"s in the middle, despite the fact that the sound is only pronounced once. This is because the word comes from the Irish language, which has different spelling rules than English. In IPA phonetic transcription, the word sounds like /ˈɡæləɡlæs/, with the first "g" silent and the second one pronounced. The word refers to a type of mercenary warrior in medieval Ireland and Scotland.
A galloglass, derived from the Irish term 'gallóglaigh,' refers to an elite warrior of Gaelic origin who served as a heavy infantryman or mercenary in Ireland and Scotland during the Middle Ages. Around the 13th to 16th centuries, galloglasses played a crucial role in various conflicts and battles within these regions.
Galloglasses typically belonged to prominent Gaelic clans and were recognized for their exceptional combat skills, fierce loyalty, and distinct attire. Clad in a chainmail hauberk or a coat of plates, they wielded formidable weapons such as a large two-handed sword or a battle-axe. Additionally, they often wore a conical helmet or a bascinet to protect their heads.
These soldiers originated primarily from clans located in the western coastal regions of Ireland, including Ulster, Connacht, and Donegal. As a distinctive feature, galloglasses typically braided their long hair, which they would dye or bleach into bright colors to intimidate their foes. Furthermore, they were renowned for their disciplined combat formations and their reputed berserker-like ferocity on the battlefield.
Galloglasses' services were highly sought after, and they were frequently employed by Gaelic lords, Irish chieftains, and Scottish clan leaders as an elite fighting force. Due to their outstanding capabilities, they often played a crucial role in both defense and offense, contributing to the outcome of many significant battles throughout the Middle Ages.
The term "galloglass" has become synonymous with these formidable warriors, epitomizing their gallantry, distinctive appearance, and valuable contributions to the military history of Ireland and Scotland.
The word "galloglass" originates from Irish and Scottish Gaelic. It is a compound word, with "gall" meaning "foreigner" or "stranger" in both languages, and "glas" meaning "green" in Irish and "grey" in Scottish Gaelic. Therefore, "galloglass" can be translated as "foreign or mercenary warriors". The term was used to refer to a specific type of Gaelic-Norse warrior who were known for their distinctive attire and fighting skills during the medieval period in Ireland and Scotland.
