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.
CHARVE, Djarf, Tjarf, adj. and n. [tʃɑ:rv Ork.; djɑrf, tjɑrf Sh.]
1. adj.
(1) “Bold, hardy; fearless; esp. not afraid [of] the dark” (Sh. 1908 Jak. (1928), djarf, tjarf); “headstrong, resolute, fearless, foolhardy” (Ork. 1929 Marw., charve).
(2) “Great” (Ork. 1825 Jam.2; 1866 Edm. Gl.).
2. n. “A bold person” (Sh. 1908 Jak. (1928)).
[O.N. djarfr, bold, daring (Zoëga).]
