Resources

Posted on 27th April, 2022 in For Readers, Of Stone and Sky, The Hidden Fires

Scots & Gaelic Words in Merryn’s Writing

Here’s a (growing) list of Scots and Gaelic words that appear in my writing and sometimes baffle folks from other parts. If you discover more that need definitions, do let me know.

ben – mountain or hill

cairn – pile of stones, often at a summit, though also marking a pass or waypoint

corrie – a steep-sided hollow at the head of a valley or on a mountainside; a glacial cirque

dreich – dreary, bleak (especially of weather)

glen – valley

loch – lake

lochan – small lake

smirr – fine drifting rain or drizzle, so thin it is almost mist

strath – a large wide valley, typically a river valley