skean

A Scottish warrior keeps a skean tucked in his belt.

Definition

1. Noun:
   • A type of dagger: "skean" refers to a double-edged dagger or short sword, historically used in Ireland and Scotland, particularly in the Gaelic-speaking regions.

Usage Examples

• Noun:
  • The warrior drew his skean from its sheath before the battle. (A traditional Irish or Scottish dagger.)
  • In ancient times, a skean was often worn as a personal weapon or ceremonial object. (A short, double-edged blade used for combat or ritual.)

Advanced Usage

• "skean-dhu" (also spelled ): a specific type of small, single-edged knife worn as part of traditional Scottish Highland dress, tucked into the top of a sock. (Note: This is a compound word; the base word "skean" alone means a dagger, not this specific item.)
  • He wore a skean-dhu with his kilt for the wedding. (A small knife worn in the sock as a cultural accessory.)

Variants and Related Words

• Skean-dhu (n): a variant spelling of sgian-dubh; a small knife worn with Highland dress.

  • The skean-dhu is a symbol of Scottish heritage. (The small knife is a cultural emblem.)

• Sgian (n): a Scottish Gaelic word for a knife or blade, from which "skean" is derived.

  • The sgian is a common tool in the Highlands. (A general term for a knife.)

Synonyms

• Dagger: a short, pointed weapon for stabbing.
• Dirke: a historical Scottish short sword or dagger, similar in size and use to a skean.

Related Idioms

• "To draw a skean": an archaic phrase meaning to prepare for conflict or to take a defensive stance.
  • When the argument grew heated, he looked ready to draw a skean. (He seemed ready to defend himself or attack.)