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Scottish National Dictionary (1700–)

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About this entry:
First published 1956 (SND Vol. IV).
This entry has not been updated since then but may contain minor corrections and revisions.

HABEEK-A-HA, int. A cry given as a signal for boys to scramble for marbles. Also hubeekee (Per. 1915 J. Wilson L. Strathearn 252). Cf. Habishiehaw.Per. 1889 T. Edwards Strathearn Lyrics 35:
When a bool tirled oot o' oor pooch to the flure, It was put in a roond penny spunk-box secure, Till it got rovin' fu, then — I min' o't sae weel — 'Twas “habeek-a-ha” at auld Jenny's Schule.

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