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.
CARLIN, CAIRLIN', ppl.adj. and vbl.n. Corruptions of Eng. carolling, hence used to indicate the time of carol-singing, Hogmanay. Cf. Carle, n.2Mearns 1900 W. MacGillivray Glengoyne I. v.:
She entered with great spirit into “cairlin' plays” [ploys], “Yule” parties, wedding parties, raffle dances, etc.
Comb.: Carlins E'en, “the last night of the year” (Sc. 1891 Guid Sc. Dict.). Cf. Carol-ewyn.
