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.
‡GADGE, n., v.2
I. n. Begging, sponging.w.Sc. 1887 Jam.:
He's aye on the gadge.
II. v. To beg, sponge, “to look out, watch, hunt for gifts, benefits, etc.” (Ib.).
Hence gadger, a sponger (Sc. 1887 Jam.; Bnff.2, Abd.2 1945).
[Variant form of Cadge. v.1. n.1, q.v. ]
