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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.

GID GAD, -GOW, int. An exclamation of disgust, esp. at anything filthy or foul-smelling (Ork. 1922 J. Firth Reminisc. 151, -gow, 1929 Marw., -gad, -gow; Ork.5 (-gad), Ags.19, Fif.13, Bwk.2 (-gad) 1950). Also gid(a)gaoo (Ork. 1880 Dennison Sketch-Bk. 217), giddy-gaad (Ork. 1951). [′gɪd(i) ′gɑd, -′gɔu]Ork. 1880 Dennison Sketch-Bk. 112:
Gid gaoo! sic' a scarsem sarro!

[Lit. = Good God! Gid (see Guid) + Gad, n.3, gow, minced or disguised forms of God. The form gow is also in use in Eng. dial. as an excl. or mild oath.]

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