Scottish National Dictionary (1700–)
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First published 1941 (SND Vol. II).
This entry has not been updated since then but may contain minor corrections and revisions.
Quotation dates: 1724, 1834-1881
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BOOTIKEN, BOOTIKIN, n. Dim. of Boot, n., an instrument of torture. Gen. in pl. Hist. and arch.Sc. 1834 M. Napier Mem. Merchiston iv.:
It was proposed to put him in the bootikins, an infernal instrument of torture, worthy of the most savage age.e.Lth. 1881 J. Sands Sk. of Tranent in Olden Time 43:
His legs were put into the bootikens, and crushed with wedges until the blood and marrow spouted out.Lnk. 1724 P. Walker Life and Death of Peden 45:
He came above Deck and said, Why are you so discouraged; you need not fear, there will neither Thumbikin nor Bootikin come here.
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"Bootiken n.". Dictionary of the Scots Language. 2004. Scottish Language Dictionaries Ltd. Accessed 17 Dec 2025 <http://www.dsl.ac.uk/entry/snd/bootiken>
