© 2026 Sloth Lingo. Learn easy. Lounge wisely.

kelpie

Intermediate (B1)

IPA: /ˈkɛlpi/

KK: /ˈkɛlpi/

noun
Definition

A type of dog that is known for its energy and intelligence, originally bred in Australia for herding sheep.


Example

The kelpie is an excellent working dog, known for its agility and herding skills.


Conversation
Sloth A
Have you ever heard the story about the kelpie?
Sloth B
Yeah, I think it’s that water spirit that looks like a horse, right?
Sloth A
Exactly! It’s said to lure people to drown in the water.
Sloth B
That’s so creepy! I’d never want to go swimming near one.

Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
spirit
sprite
dog
Antonyms
land
human
tame
Root Explanation

The word 'kelpie' originates from Scottish folklore, referring to a water spirit or mythical creature, often depicted as a horse. The term is derived from the Scottish Gaelic 'cailpeach', meaning a water horse or a horse of the water.

Memory Tip

Imagine a mythical horse that lives in the water — that's what a kelpie is, a water spirit often depicted as a horse.

Visually Confused Words
kewpie
keelie
kepi
kelyphite
kele
Is this page helpful?