loch
UK[lɒx]US[lɑːk]
n
a lake or a narrow strip of sea almost surrounded by land, especially in Scotland.
Etymology
the word 'loch' entered english from scottish gaelic, where it simply means 'lake' or 'inlet of the sea'. the gaelic term itself descends from old irish 'loch', which has the same meaning. this old irish word is ultimately derived from proto-celtic loku, signifying a body of water, and is cognate with latin 'lacus' (meaning lake, basin) and english 'lake'. the distinct scottish usage, particularly for the long, narrow sea inlets, was solidified as the word was adopted into english, carrying with it the specific geographical and cultural connotations of the scottish landscape.
Analysis
this is a loanword from scottish gaelic. it is not productively segmented into smaller morphemes in english.
Examples
they went fishing on the tranquil loch at dawn.
the famous monster is said to inhabit loch ness.
a sea loch provides a sheltered harbor for the boats.