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.
GUNNI(E), GON(N)I, n. A bogey, a bugbear, “a hobgoblin invoked to frighten children” (Sh. 1866 Edm. Gl., 1914 Angus Gl., Sh. 1955). Humorously applied to a louse (Sh. 1955). Also in comb. gunni-man (Sh.12 1955).Sh. 1908 Jak. (1928):
“Gon(n)i will tak' dee!” (a threat to naughty children).
