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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.

GLAFTER, n. A burst of loud laughter (Sh. 1866 Edm. Gl., 1914 Angus Gl.), loud, stupid laughter (Sh. 1908 Jak. (1928), Ork. 1929 Marw.; Sh.10 1954). [′glɑftər]

Hence 1. glaft(e)ret, -it, adj., (1) “addicted to excessive and inexpedient jollity” (Sh. 1914 Angus Gl.), laughing in a foolish, noisy manner (Sh. 1908 Jak. (1928), glaftret, Sh.10 1954); †(2) vain, giddy (Sh. 1866 Edm. Gl., glafterit); 2. glaftrie, -ery, flighty, “excitable” (Ork.5 1954).2. Ork. 1949 “Lex” But-end Ballans 24:
Robbie's mither, sheu's gey glaftery, an' sets great store on style.

[Prob. imit. with -ter suff. and influence from laughter.]

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