What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
cailliach
Example
The cailliach was said to control the weather and bring about the changing seasons. [cailliach: noun]
Example
The villagers sought the guidance of the cailliach for her wisdom and knowledge. [cailliach: noun]
witch
Example
The witch brewed a potion using various herbs and ingredients. [witch: noun]
Example
In fairy tales, witches are often depicted as villains who use their powers for evil. [witches: plural noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Witch is a more commonly used word compared to cailliach. The term witch is widely known and has been popularized through fairy tales and popular culture, while cailliach is less well-known outside of Scottish folklore.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between cailliach and witch?
Both cailliach and witch can be considered informal words due to their association with folklore and mythology. However, witch is more versatile and can be used in both formal and informal contexts, while cailliach is more specific to Scottish folklore and may be less commonly used in everyday language.
