We use cookies to enhance your experience on our website. By clicking 'continue' or by continuing to use our website, you are agreeing to our use of cookies. You can change your cookie settings in your browser at any time.

Continue
Find out more

Scottish National Dictionary (1700–)

Hide Quotations Hide Etymology

Abbreviations Cite this entry

About this entry:
First published 1941 (SND Vol. II).
This entry has not been updated since then but may contain minor corrections and revisions.

CAPERNICIOUS, CAPPERNISHIOUS, adj. “Short-tempered, fretful, and finding fault continually” (Bnff. 1866 Gregor D. Bnff. 22, cappernishious); known to Mry.1 1925; Bnff.8 c.1920, capernicious, Bnff.2, Abd.22 1938. [′kɑpər′nɪʃəs]

[Prob. a corruption of Eng. capricious, with some contact from Capernoitie.]

5634

snd