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.
HABBIE-GABBIE, n.comb. Also habbi-gabbi (Jak.). Found in phr. to play habbi-gabbi, to throw up one or more stones or other small objects and try to catch them as they fall (Sh. 1908 Jak. (1928), Sh. 1956, rare); also used adv. in phr. to throw (cast) habbie gabbie, to throw (money, etc.) amongst a crowd to be scrambled for (Sh. 1866 Edm. Gl., 1908 Jak. (1928)).
[Origin doubtful. Cf. Habeek-a-ha.]
