1. mythical water spirits in Scottish folklore, typically appearing as horses that lure riders to their death by drowning
Usage: Scottish folklore; mythology
2. a breed of Australian herding dog with a compact build and high energy
Usage: dog breed

Examples

• The old fisherman warned children about kelpies that haunted the loch.
• Scottish legends describe kelpies as shape-shifting creatures of the water.
• The farmer’s kelpies expertly herded the sheep across the field.
• Australian kelpies are known for their intelligence and work ethic.
• She trained her kelpies to compete in herding trials.
• The folklore museum featured stories about kelpies and other water spirits.