 The Norse retained the earlier root but changed the meaning , providing the only definite example of an adaption of a pre @-@ Norse place name in the Northern Isles . The islands became <unk> meaning " seal islands " . An alternative name for Orkney is recorded in 1300 — <unk> , meaning " horse isle " and this may also contain a Pictish element of ros meaning " moor " or " plain " . 
