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.
GLAIRY, adj. Sc. form and usages of Eng. glary, dazzling, glaring, in comb. glairy-flairy, 1. adj., gaudy, showy (n.Sc. 1808 Jam.; Sh.10 (rare), Abd., m.Lth.1 1954);
†2. n.pl., “gaudy trappings of little value, and unbecoming in the wearer” (Ags. 1808 Jam.).1. Fif. 1827 W. Tennant Papistry Storm'd 31:
She wale'd out ane, a pretty fairy, Beltit wi' ribbons glairy-flairy.