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Scottish National Dictionary (1700–)

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About this entry:
First published 1952 (SND Vol. III). Includes material from the 1976 supplement.
This entry has not been updated since then but may contain minor corrections and revisions.

CUSTARD, n. In phr. coordie, coordie, custard!, a taunt used by children when challenging to fight (Edb. 1909 Colville 128). Cf. Eng. dial. cowardy! cowardy! costard! (E.D.D.).Abd.27 1947:
The wee loonie widna fecht an' the ithers ran efter 'im cryin' “Coordie, coordie, custard!”

[A corruption of obs. Eng. coistril, a coward, timid person (N.E.D.). Cf. Custril.]

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