Scottish National Dictionary (1700–)
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About this entry:
First published 1941 (SND Vol. II). Includes material from the 2005 supplement.
This entry has not been updated since then but may contain minor corrections and revisions.
CHITTLE, v.1 “To shell oats as birds do” (Gall. 1824 MacTaggart Gallov. Encycl. 134); “to eat corn from the ear, putting off the husk with the teeth” (Dmf. 1825 Jam.2). Hence to nibble, to gnaw (Kcb.9, Kcb.10 1939). Ppl.adj. chittling.sm.Sc. 1988 W. A. D. and D. Riach A Galloway Glossary :
chickled, chittled nibbled, chewed, broken into small pieces.Kcb. 1815 J. Gerrond Works 125:
Whilst chittling mice and lang tailed rats Gude stuff were cutting.
