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.
CREEPER, n.
1. A grappling-iron.Abd. 1736 An Abd. Estate (S.C. 1946) 26:
For 2 Creepens [sic] for cleaning Ditches 2s.
2. “A small grapple made of cod-fishing hooks, tied together; used by fishermen to search for lost lines” (Bnff. 1866 Gregor D. Bnff. 31; Arg.1 1940); in pl.: “dragging-tackle used by smugglers to catch and raise to the surface kegs which had been sunk at the approach of a revenue-cutter” (Sc. 1911 S.D.D.).
3. “The caddis-worm” (Rxb. 1923 Watson W.-B.; Rxb. 1940 (per Lnk.11)). Also found in Eng. dial. (E.D.D.).
[O.Sc. crepar, creiper, a grappling-iron or grapnel, 1513; a creeping thing, 1590 (D.O.S.T.).]
