dàimh

Dàimh is a Scottish Gaelic word that translates to "ox" or "bullock." In a historical and cultural context, it refers to a working animal, typically used for draught purposes in agriculture. These animals were essential for plowing fields, hauling timber, and other heavy labor on farms before the advent of modern machinery. The strength and endurance of the dàimh were highly valued, and their care and management were an important part of rural life in the Scottish Highlands and Islands.

The term dàimh can also be found in folklore and traditional stories, often symbolizing power, stubbornness, or resilience. In some contexts, it might refer to a specific breed of cattle known for their strength and hardiness, though the word itself is a general term for the working bovine. The importance of the dàimh in sustaining communities through agricultural labor is reflected in its presence in the Gaelic language and cultural heritage. Their role was fundamental to the subsistence farming practices that characterized the Highlands for centuries.