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.
BUSKIE, n. “One of a party of children, gen. boys, who go round the streets in disguise at Hallowe'en with the idea of getting some reward, either in cash or in nuts, fruit, etc. They are expected to provide some sort of entertainment” (Kcb.10 1937).
[Prob. a reduced form of slang Eng busker, an itinerant musician, etc. (see N.E.D. Suppl.). See Busk, v., above.]
