What does loch mean?
A loch is a lake, especially one of the often dramatic bodies of water found among the mountains and glens of Scotland. The word is also used more broadly for a long, narrow body of water, including some coastal inlets. In British English outside Scotland, loch may sound distinctive, regional, or slightly literary, so lake is usually the neutral everyday choice. Nevertheless, loch carries a strong sense of place, often evoking rugged landscapes, islands, fishing, and quiet or remote scenery. The word comes from Scottish Gaelic and has traditionally been especially associated with the Highlands and islands. It is a useful example of a regional English word that preserves a distinct cultural and geographical identity.
nounA lake, especially a lake in Scotland. The word can also refer to a long, narrow body of water resembling a lake.
- A lake, especially one in Scotland.
- A long, narrow body of water, whether freshwater or connected to the sea.
"The road winds beside a quiet loch beneath the mountains."
"Ben Nevis is often reflected in the still waters of nearby lochs."
"The fishing boat sheltered in the loch until the storm passed."
The standard plural adds -s.
"The route passes several lochs and small fishing villages."
The word loch is a lasting Scottish signature: it evokes the glens, islands, and mountain waters of the Highlands.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does loch come from?
The word comes from Scottish Gaelic loch, meaning a lake, and entered English through Scottish usage. It is related to lough, an English form borrowed from Irish, as well as to Gaelic forms in several other Celtic languages. The spelling has remained recognizable in both English and Gaelic, although the pronunciation of the English word varies regionally.
Related word forms
How loch is actually used
The word is especially common in Scottish English and in writing about Scotland. It can sound literary or regional in other English varieties, and many speakers use the more general word lake instead.
Easily confused with loch
A lough is an English word for a lake or long inlet, especially in Ireland, whereas loch is more strongly associated with Scotland.
A lock is a mechanism for securing a door or controlling the level of water in a canal, while a loch is a body of water.