Scottish National Dictionary (1700–)
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First published 1941 (SND Vol. II). Includes material from the 1976 supplement.
This entry has not been updated since then but may contain minor corrections and revisions.
Quotation dates: 1891-1919
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CATCHY, adj.
1. “Disposed to take the advantage of another. It is sometimes applied to language; but more commonly to conduct, as denoting one who is ready to circumvent” (Sc. 1808 Jam.). Known to Abd.22, Slg.3, Kcb.10 1938.Kcb. 1891 M.A.M. Halloween Guest 68:
I could maybe gie ye a pickle baith [stolen sugar and tea], but I daurna gie ye much, for the mistress has grown catchy.
2. Of the weather: changeable, unsettled (Rxb. 1923 Watson W.-B.). Given in E.D.D. for many Eng. counties.Rxb. 1919 Jedburgh Gazette (14 Feb.) 3/4:
Leading in time was “catchy” last year, and one had to watch their opportunity.
