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.
FLAILER, n. One who, or that which flails; hence fig. of a shattering retort, a “floorer” (Abd.27 1952).Ayr. 1891 H. Johnston Kilmallie I. vi.:
The auctioneer's reply was a flailer to the factor.
