Latvian, like many languages, has words that don’t have direct English equivalents. These terms often reflect the unique cultural and emotional landscape of the Baltics. Here are 11 untranslatable Latvian words that offer a glimpse into Baltic life.
1. Garais gads
Garais gads
/ˈɡa.rais ɡads/Literally 'long year', this phrase describes a year that feels endless, often due to hardship or monotony. It’s not just a long year - it’s one that drags on painfully.
2. Pūķis
Pūķis
[pūːcis]A mythical creature similar to a dragon, but in Latvian folklore, it’s often a protector rather than a villain. The word also refers to the weathervane on Riga’s rooftops, symbolising the city’s spirit.
3. Rūsa
Rūsa
/ˈruː.sa/A deep, melancholic longing - not just nostalgia, but a bittersweet ache for something lost or unattainable. It’s a common theme in Latvian poetry and folk songs.
4. Vēja māte
Vēja māte
/ˈveː.ja ˈmaː.te/“Mother of the Wind”
A mythical figure in Latvian folklore who controls the winds. She’s neither good nor evil - just unpredictable, much like the Baltic weather.
5. Dzīvespriecīgs
Dzīvespriecīgs
/ˈdziː.ves.prie.t͡siːks/Someone who radiates joy for life, finding happiness in small things. It’s more than just 'cheerful' - it’s an inherent zest for existence.
6. Līksmība
Līksmība
/ˈliːk.smiː.ba/A specific kind of happiness that comes from being carefree and lighthearted. It’s the opposite of heaviness - both emotional and physical.
7. Miermīlīgs
Miermīlīgs
/ˈmi.er.miː.liːks/“Peace-loving”
Not just 'peaceful', but someone who actively seeks harmony and avoids conflict. It’s a valued trait in Latvian culture.
8. Sērga
Sērga
/ˈseːr.ɡa/An old word for an illness, but also used metaphorically to describe a deep, consuming sorrow - something that eats away at you.
9. Ziemassvētki
Ziemassvētki
/ˈzi.e.mas.veːt.ki/“Winter solstice/Yule”
The traditional Latvian winter solstice celebration, blending pagan and Christian traditions. It’s more than Christmas - it’s a time of rebirth and light in the darkest season.
10. Līgot
Līgot
/ˈliː.ɡot/To sing traditional folk songs while wandering from house to house during the summer solstice (Jāņi). It’s a communal, almost ritualistic act of celebration.
11. Skaistumdusmas
Skaistumdusmas
/ˈskai.stum.du.smas/A poetic term meaning 'beauty dreams' - those fleeting moments of aesthetic pleasure, like watching a sunset or hearing birdsong at dawn.
These words offer a window into Latvian culture, where nature, folklore, and deep emotion intertwine. If you enjoyed this, check out our guide to the most beautiful Latvian words for more linguistic gems.
