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Scottish National Dictionary (1700–)

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About this entry:
First published 1956 (SND Vol. IV).
This entry has not been updated since then but may contain minor corrections and revisions.

†FOUT, n.1 [fʌut]

1. A spoiled, peevish child (Rxb. 1825 Jam., 1923 Watson W.-B.). Freq. in phr. Mam's or Mother's fout (Ib.). Also in n.Eng. dial. Adj. foutsome, forward, interfering, of a child; officious (Rxb. 1923 Watson W.-B., obs.).

2. A fat animal (Bch. 1916 T.S.D.C. II.). Used as a nickname in fishing-villages (Ib.).

[Orig. doubtful. ? Cf. Mid.Eng. folt, a simpleton. 1. and 2. may be different words.]

11892

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