Dictionaries of the Scots Language
Dictionars o the Scots Leid

Scottish National Dictionary (1700–)

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About this entry:
First published 1934 (SND Vol. I). Includes material from the 1976 supplement.
This entry has not been updated since then but may contain minor corrections and revisions.

†BIRK, v.¹ “To give a tart answer, to converse in a sharp and cutting way” (Sc. 1808 Jam.). Phr. to birk up, to bridle up in a huff, to take offence. Per. 1950:
He birkt up when 1 tellt him he was ower auld.