Scottish National Dictionary (1700–)
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First published 1956 (SND Vol. IV).
This entry has not been updated since then but may contain minor corrections and revisions.
FEEFLE, v. Also feiffle, feefil, fiffle; fifel (Jak.). To work in a clumsy or foolish manner (Ork. 1887 Jam.); to act foolishly (Sh. 1908 Jak. (1928); ‡Sh.10 1951). Now gen. as ppl.adj. feeflan, clumsy, footling (Ork. 1887 Jam., 1929 Marw.); “working slowly or listlessly” (Ork. 1922 J. Firth Reminisc. 151). Hence adj. feefly, infirm, feeble, clumsy (Ork. 1929 Marw.; Ork.5 1951).
[O.N. fífl, a fool.]
