Witch of the Glens

by Sally Watson

Chlanna nan con, thigibh a sh’s gheibh sibh feoil. “Sons of the dogs, come hither, and you shall have flesh” (Cameron war cry).

Dhia dhuit. A greeting (“good day,” literally, “God today”).

Droch-inntinneach. Evil-minded.

Dubh (also dhu). Black.

Each uisghe. Water horse (mythical sea-monster, probably with some connection to the Loch Ness Monster, which has been seen frequently for at least 1500 years and to which Saint Columba of Iona gave a good scolding in 565, as recorded by the Abbot of Iona).

Filleadh mór. The great-plaid, kilt and plaid in one piece. (The plaid, or plaidie, was worn around the shoulders and sometimes over the head.)

Ghillie. An attendant or follower of a clan chief or chieftain.

Kelpie. A water witch.

Mallaichte. Wicked.

M’eudain. An endearment.