sàineach

Sàineach is a Scottish Gaelic word that can refer to several different things, primarily related to plants and the sea. Most commonly, it is used to describe a type of seaweed, specifically species within the Fucus genus. These are often found on the shores of Scotland and are sometimes colloquially known as "wrack" in English. This seaweed has historically been used for various purposes, including as fertilizer for crops and as a food source in some coastal communities.

Beyond seaweed, sàineach can also refer to the plant *Salsola kali*, commonly known as prickly saltwort or sea holly. This is a hardy, salt-tolerant plant that grows in sandy coastal areas. Its appearance is characterized by its spiky leaves and its ability to thrive in harsh, exposed environments.

In a broader sense, the term sàineach can sometimes be used in a more general context to describe something found by the sea or related to coastal flora. The specific meaning often depends on the regional dialect and the context in which the word is used.