View synonyms for

kelpie

[ kel-pee ]

Phonetic (Standard)IPA

noun

(in Scottish legends) a water spirit, usually having the form of a horse, reputed to cause drownings or to warn those in danger of drowning.

kelpie

[ kel-pee ]

Phonetic (Standard)IPA

noun

Australian kelpie.

kelpie

/ ˈ��ɛ��ɪ /

noun

an Australian breed of sheepdog, originally developed from Scottish collies, having a smooth coat of various colours and erect ears

kelpie

/ ˈ��ɛ��ɪ /

noun

(in Scottish folklore) a water spirit in the form of a horse that drowned its riders

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Word History and Origins

Origin of kelpie¹

First recorded in 1740–50; origin uncertain

Origin of kelpie²

First recorded in 1905–10

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Word History and Origins

Origin of kelpie¹

named after a particular specimen of the breed, c. 1870

Origin of kelpie²

C18: probably related to Scottish Gaelic cailpeach heifer, of obscure origin

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Example Sentences

Examples have not been reviewed.

One of the couple’s three dogs, an Australian kelpie mix named Zinna, was found dead in a crate in their home when the couple were discovered on Feb. 26.

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His kelpie dropped a ball at my feet, tail wagging, and I threw it without thinking.

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Thanks to farmer James for showing Jodie and me some five week old kelpie pups at the Sydney Royal @eastershow this morning.

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Meanwhile the world’s largest kelpie continues to evade capture in Loch Ness and appears to have developed a positive thirst for publicity.

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A kelpie thought to be the world’s oldest dog has died at home on a dairy farm in the Australian state of Victoria.

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Related Words

kelp greenling kelpy

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