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.
HAAG, n., v. Also hag (Jak.).
I. n. Order, good management (Sh. 1908 Jak. (1928), Sh. 1956); hence thrift, economy (Sh. 1866 Edm. Gl., Sh. 1956). Phr. to have ne haag wi' one's wark, to perform a task carelessly, without regard to consequences (Sh. 1914 Angus Gl.). Hence derivs.: (1) ha(a)gless, haglos, careless, lavish, wasteful (Sh. 1908 Jak. (1928), Sh. 1956). Also fig., boundless, illimitable (Jak., Angus); (2) ha(a)gli, orderly, tidy, careful, convenient (Ib.). Also used adv. (Sh. 1908 Jak. (1928)).(1) Sh. 1898 “Junda” Klingrahool 51:
Set oot upon a haagless sea Ta flot, or sink for want o bowes.
II. v. To manage well, be economical, to save (Sh. 1899 J. Spence Folk-Lore 207, Sh. 1956). Phr. to hag and hain, to scrimp and save (Sh. 1908 Jak. (1928)).
[Norw. dial. hag, order, management, haga, to arrange, manage, O.N. haga, id.]
