Scottish National Dictionary (1700–)
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First published 1952 (SND Vol. III).
This entry has not been updated since then but may contain minor corrections and revisions.
DRAFFIE, Draffy, adj.
†1. Full of draff or dregs, of inferior quality.Abd. a.1807 J. Skinner Amusements (1809) 68:
Wine's the true inspiring liquor, Draffy drink may please the Vicar.
2. Fig. of persons: stiff or flabby, unable to walk or run easily (Cai. 1911 D.D. in John o' Groat Jnl. (24 Feb.); Cai.9 1949; Mry.1 1916; Ags.2 1940; Rxb. 1923 Watson W.-B.); feeble; slow, easy-going (Mry.1 1925). Also used in Eng. dial. (Lakel.) in sense of exhausted.Cai.1 c.1920:
He looked gey draffie lek.Cai. 1930 Caithness Forum in John o' Groat Jnl. (4 July):
Sandy — There's gaun' til' be a obstacle race at 'e Reay Show. Fat might ye thocht o' tryin' 'id? Tam — Ochanee, na, na; A'm gettin' ower draffie.
