Scottish National Dictionary (1700–)
Hide Quotations Hide Etymology
About this entry:
First published 1956 (SND Vol. IV).
This entry has not been updated since then but may contain minor corrections and revisions.
GROICHAN, n. Used of anything very small, such as the last-born of a litter, a coin of small value, etc. Also used derogatorily of persons = petty by nature.Rs. 1944 C. M. Maclean Farewell Tharrus 57:
“You can have the Groichan for as long as he's there,” he replied shortly. “Why is he so wee?” “Because he's the last of the litter.”