Scottish National Dictionary (1700–)
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About this entry:
First published 1952 (SND Vol. III).
This entry has not been updated since then but may contain minor corrections and revisions.
Quotation dates: 1910-1925
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CLAW, n.3 An excited state of annoyance or anxiety (Bnff.2, Abd.2 1937). Also clawin'. Always in phr. in a claw(in').Bnff. 1924 Burnie's Jeannie in Swatches o' Hamespun 24:
She wis in a great claw that she cudna get yon lassie o' hers awa.Abd.13 1910:
She's in an afa clawin' aboot 'er laddie.Bch. 1925 (per Abd. 15):
Sic a claw she was in fin she got the bit letterie sayin she beed to flit.
