kelpie
kelpie Lexical Profile
kelpie Game Scores & Validity
• noun
Australian An Australian breed of highly intelligent and energetic sheepdog, originally bred from imported Scottish collies, known for its ability to work livestock in harsh conditions.
"The farmer relied heavily on his loyal kelpie to muster the large flock of sheep across the hot outback."
Scottish A shape-shifting water spirit in Scottish folklore, typically appearing as a horse, reputed to haunt rivers and lochs and lure travelers into the water to drown them.
"According to local legends, the dark loch was inhabited by a kelpie that would drag unsuspecting riders beneath the surface."
Word Origin & Etymology
First recorded in the late 17th century from Scots 'kelpie', likely originating from Scottish Gaelic 'cailpeach' or 'colpach' (heifer, colt). The dog breed was named after a specific founding working dog named 'Kelpie' in Australia during the 1870s.
Usage Trend
Historical frequency of usage in published text.