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.
ANSWER, v.tr.
1. Besides St.Eng. meanings: of a person to whom a dress, colour, etc., is becoming; expr. in Eng. by “it suits (the person).” Cf. Agree, Set, Suit.Lth., Lnk. c.1900 Lnk.3:
Hoo weel ye answer that bannet!Ayr. 1905 J. Ar. in E.D.D. Suppl.:
When I was young and went to balls I always answered pink.
2. tr. and absol. To obey (the command of) (I. and n.Sc. 1975). Abd. 1941 C. Gavin Black Milestone vii.:
He fairly answers me, ye ken.
