Gàidhlig / English
Muc-bhiorach

Muc-bhiorach

Posted by Shona on 13th October 2016
This week we are looking at some different Gaelic words for the sea mammal ‘porpoise.’

‘Muc-bhiorach’ was collected in Raasay in 1970, South Uist in 1987–88 and in Arran in 1967. Other similar words were found too – “muc a bearraich” and “mucan-bearaich” were recorded in Mull in 1967–68; and in the same time period “muc-a-bioraich” was recorded in Carradale, Argyll. “Bearrach” means muzzled and is also used for a dogfish.

Other words for a porpoise were also recorded – “muc steallain” in South Boisdale, South Uist (from “steallach” meaning spouting), and “muc-stigean” in Coll.

“Cana” and “peilig” were also recorded and these are more common words for a porpoise. In Carradale, “peilig” was used for a porpoise or porpoise-like creature which would be faster than a “muc-a-bioraich.”

Have you heard or used these words? Or do you know other words for a porpoise? Let us know on Facebook or Twitter.
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