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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.

EER, EIR, v., n.2 Also ir. [i:r]

1. v. To scream with fright: to squeal, as a swine in pain (Sh. 1825 Jam.2; 1866 Edm. Gl.; 1908 Jak. (1928); 1914 Angus Gl.; Sh.10 1949).Sh. 1898 Shet. News (20 Aug.):
William yokid da gaut ower da trümie [snout] wi' sic a grip 'at he eir'd fil Sibbie clappid her haands ower her lugs an' fled in.

2. n. A piercing scream uttered in terror (Sh. 1866 Edm. Gl.; Sh.10 1949).Sh. 1908 Jak. (1928):
Hear de irs o' her!

[Onomat. in origin.]

10224

snd