Daily Almanac for
Dec 10, 2009
Search White Pages
Search: Infoplease Info search tips
Search: Biographies Bio search tips
Dictionary of Phrase and Fable—T

Taghairm

(2 syl.). A means employed by the Scotch in inquiring into futurity. A person wrapped up in the hide of a fresh-slain bullock was placed beside a waterfall, or at the foot of a precipice, and there left to meditate on the question propounded. Whatever his fancy suggested to him in this wild situation passed for the inspiration of his disembodied spirit.

Last evening-tide
Brian an augury hath tried,
Of that kind which must not be
Unless in dread extremity,
The Taghairm called.

Sir Walter Scott: Lady of the Lake, iv. 4.

Source: Dictionary of Phrase and Fable, E. Cobham Brewer, 1894
Taherites
Tag Rag, and Bobtail
A B C D E F G H I J K L M N O P Q R S T U V W X Y Z

More on Taghairm from Infoplease:

  • Taghairm - Taghairm (2 syl.). A means employed by the Scotch in inquiring into futurity. A person wrapped up ...
  • Dictionary of Phrase and Fable: T - Definitions, origins, and illustrative excerpts for words, phases, and literary allusions starting with "T"
    • Cite
    • Print
    • Bookmark

Related Content