Scottish National Dictionary (1700–)
Hide Quotations Hide Etymology
About this entry:
First published 1965 (SND Vol. VI).
This entry has not been updated since then but may contain minor corrections and revisions.
†LUCHTACH, n. Also luchdtachk, and by a misprint leichtach. A Highland chief's retinue or bodyguard. Gael. [′luxtəx]Sc. 1703 M. Martin West. Isles (1716) 103:
There was a competent number of young gentlemen call'd Luchtaeh [sic] or Guard de corps, who always attended the chieftain at home and abroad.Sc. 1828 Scott F. M. Perth xxviii.:
The crew of the boat of the foster brethern, or Leichtach [sic].Highl. 1939 F. Drake-Carnell Old Sc. Custom 160:
The “tail” or “Luchdtachk” of the Highland chief was a body of specially selected young men who attended him wherever he went and acted as a bodyguard.
