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Poll Eòghainn (Uamh)

Assynt, Knockan, SE of Druim Poll Eoghainn, Sutherland.

Cave in low rocky hillock at the base of Druim Poll Eòghainn, next to an area of boggy ground (Poll Eòghainn).

Alternative Names: Ewan's Hole (Cave of), Eoghainn [Poll] (Uamh)

Notes: In most of Gaelic-speaking Scotland the word poll typically means primarily 'a hole'. Its range is slightly extended to mean not only 'hole' or 'pit', but more watery objects: 'mire, mud, bog, pond, deep stagnant water, puddle', and even 'sluggish stream in peaty ground', and such-like - basically, holes with water in them. Its origins lie in Old Gaelic (OG) poll whose principal meanings are 'opening, cavity, hole, pit' [Dictionary of the Irish Language (DIL)]

Eòghainn seems to be a personal name (Evan or Ian) [place name studies suggest Ewan or Ewen]. There are hints that this could be a Saint's name but there seems to little or no justification. More likely a local worthy (gillie, tenant farmer or landowner).

Although Poll Eòghainn is mentioned on the earliest OS map of 1872, the cave is not indicated (other caves are marked).

Hydrographic Feeds: Abhainn a' Chnocain

Hydrographic Resurgences: Abhainn a' Chnocain