We use cookies to enhance your experience on our website. By clicking 'continue' or by continuing to use our website, you are agreeing to our use of cookies. You can change your cookie settings in your browser at any time.

Continue
Find out more

Scottish National Dictionary (1700–)

Hide Quotations Hide Etymology

Abbreviations Cite this entry

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

FYARM, v. Also fia(a)rm, f(e)yarm. To flatter, to fawn on, to cajole, speak fulsomely and ingratiatingly (Sh. 1866 Edm. Gl., 1914 Angus Gl., Sh.12 1950); to fondle, caress (Sh. 1866 Edm. Gl.).Sh. 1908 Old-Lore Misc. I. vi. 230:
For [this] compliment he would perhaps be told that he was “fiarmin” for his own ends.

[Norw. dial. fjarma, to cajole, flatter.]

12189

snd