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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.

DUFF, v.

1. To draw back from a bargain or undertaking (Rxb. 1923 Watson W.-B.; 1925 E. C. Smith Braid Haaick 10; Rxb.5 1940). Also used with on (Watson). Also found in n.Eng. dial.

2. “To refrain from exerting oneself to win a race, etc.” (Rxb. 1923 Watson W.-B.).

[Prob. a back-formation from duffer: cf. slang Eng. duff, to cheat, and duff, to mis-hit a ball (in golf).]

9895

snd