Scottish National Dictionary (1700–)
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First published 1934 (SND Vol. I).
This entry has not been updated since then but may contain minor corrections and revisions.
ALFE, AILF, n. Sc. forms of elf. (See quot.)Cld. 1887 Jam.5:
Alfe, ailf. Lit. elf; but applied to a mischievous, ill-natured, or cantankerous child; also to a troublesome person of small stature; as “He's an alfe o' a wean that”; “Did ye hear that ailf o' a body?”
