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.
†GENIE, n. Also geni, geny. Genius, in its sense of inherent ability, natural aptitude. Also in 17th c. Eng. = inclination, natural bent. [′dʒini]Ayr. 1821 Galt Ann. Parish vi.:
But the second Mrs. Balwhidder that was, had a geni for management.Sc. 1834 Wilson Noctes Amb. (1856) IV. 148:
A man may hae great talents, and nae genie.Ayr. 1887 J. Service Dr Duguid 79–80:
A man of a great mechanical genie.
