Scottish National Dictionary (1700–)
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First published 1960 (SND Vol. V).
This entry has not been updated since then but may contain minor corrections and revisions.
HAS-BEEN, n. A person or thing whose best days are over; a good old custom (Dmf. 1825 Jam.). Gen.Sc. Now adopted by Eng.Sc. 1702 R. Blau Libamina 27:
Fuimus Troes, We are among the has-beens.Ayr. 1786 Burns Inventory 11–12:
My lan'-afore's a gude auld “has-been,” An' wight an' wilfu' a' his days been.Sc. 1821 Blackwood's Mag. (Jan.) 405:
Relics of ancient superstition still lingering in the land, and worshipped under the deluding and endearing names of “Gude all [auld] has-beens.”
