coileán

Coileán is the Irish word for a young pig, or piglet. It is a term commonly used in the context of farming and agriculture, particularly in Ireland and other Irish-speaking regions. The word is derived from the Old Irish word "cúalán," which also referred to a young pig.

In traditional Irish farming, pigs were a common source of food and income. The birth of a litter of piglets, or "coileán," was an important event for farmers. Young pigs were often raised by hand, and their health and growth were closely monitored. The term "coileán" continues to be used today in agricultural settings and in discussions about Irish livestock.

The word "coileán" can also be used metaphorically in Irish to describe a small, plump, or mischievous child, though this usage is less common than its literal meaning. The plural form of "coileán" is "coileáin." Understanding this term provides insight into the vocabulary associated with rural life and animal husbandry in Ireland.