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.
‡GOAZLE, v., n. Also gozzle.
I. v. To make a gurgling noise, as in clearing the throat, to expectorate (Mry. 1930 per Fif.17). For a variant reading in the quot., see Groozle, v.1Ayr. 1786 Burns Merry Muses (1911) 47:
Ye pegh and grane, and goazle there, And make an unco splutter.
II. n. Phlegm, spittle (Mry. 1930 per Fif.17).
[Prob. of echoic origin.]