Scottish National Dictionary (1700–)
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First published 1960 (SND Vol. V).
This entry has not been updated since then but may contain minor corrections and revisions.
†KLYAUCH, v., n. Also kllauch, kllauck (Gregor). [kljɑ:x]
I. v. To work messily, to besmear, to expectorate. Ppl.adj. kllauchin, “filthy of habit and unskilful at work” (Bnff. 1866 Gregor D. Bnff. 96). With wi: to fondle overmuch, coddle, cosset (Ib.).Ib.:
He haucht an' kllaucht, an' spat, till he caed me oot fairly scunnert. He kllaucht amon's taties, an' widna sup them.
II. n. Messy, unpleasant work; the act of besmearing or expectorating. Hence kllauchie, kllauckie, slimy; the act of over-nursing, excessive handling; a person dirty of habits and unskilful at work (Ib.).
[A variant form of Claich, id., with palatalisation of l; see P.L.D. § 141.1. The word is mainly imit. with formal influence from Cloch, Clocher, Clag, v., n.1, Claick, v.2, n.2, Clyager.]
