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.
FIDDER, n.2 Also fider (Jak.). A sheep mark consisting of “a thin slice from both sides of the ear” (Sh. 1866 Edm. Gl.) or “a slanting cut, esp. from the upper edge of the ear” (Sh. 1908 Jak. (1928); Sh.10 1951). Hence ppl.adj. fid(d)erd, cut with such a mark (Ib.). Cf. Fedder, 3., Feather, v. 3.Sh. 1899 J. Spence Folk-Lore 176:
The various sheep marks had names by which they were known, bits, crooks, fidders, and shöls indicating different cuts in the ear.
