We use cookies to enhance your experience on our website. By continuing to use our website, you are agreeing to our use of cookies. You can change your cookie settings at any time. Find out more

Subscriber login

Library card login

Other

X Close menu

Dictionary Language resources

kelpie

Pronunciation: /ˈkɛlpi/

Definition of kelpie

noun

1a water spirit of Scottish folklore, typically taking the form of a horse and reputed to delight in the drowning of travellers.

2a sheepdog of an Australian breed with a smooth coat, originally bred from a Scottish collie.

Origin:

late 17th century: perhaps from Scottish Gaelic cailpeach, colpach 'bullock, colt'. sense 2 apparently comes from the name of a particular bitch, King's Kelpie (circa1879)