Scottish National Dictionary (1700–)
Hide Quotations Hide Etymology
About this entry:
First published 1956 (SND Vol. IV).
This entry has not been updated since then but may contain minor corrections and revisions.
GAININ, adj. Winning, winsome, lovable (Uls. 1880 Patterson Gl.); ingratiating (Sc. 1911 S.D.D. Add.). Found in Eng. 17th cent.Sc. 1731 R. Wodrow Corresp. (1843) III. 481:
Though I take it to be your duty to write to him, and perhaps in such soft and gaining terms, yet I fear he is so stiff and self-willed, somewhat more of salt would have been as effectual.Dwn. 1953 per Uls.4:
She's a gainin' wee thing.
