A Scottish Gaelic term meaning an old woman, often used in the context of Scottish and Irish mythology as the name of a supernatural hag figure — the Cailleach — associated with winter, storms, and the creation of mountains and lochs. In everyday Scots Gaelic usage, it simply means an old woman, but in cultural and literary contexts it most commonly refers to the mythological figure, a divine hag who wields enormous power over the landscape and seasons. The word is pronounced roughly 'KAL-yuch.'
According to legend, the cailleach created Ben Nevis by dropping rocks from her apron as she strode across the Highlands.
Cailleach means: A Scottish Gaelic term meaning an old woman, often used in the context of Scottish and Irish mythology as the name of a supernatural hag figure - the Cailleach - associated with winter, storms,. It is mainly Irish English and may not be understood outside that context. There is no real cause for parental concern; it is descriptive vocabulary rather than risky behaviour.
Slang is read by different audiences for very different reasons. The For parents view re-explains the term in plain, non-judgemental language so a caregiver can understand what their child means without needing the surrounding subculture. The For English learners view focuses on register (when it's safe to use), formal alternatives, and common mistakes — what a textbook won't teach you.
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(Scotland) An old woman.
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