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.
¶HOBSHANKS, n.pl. Legs, thighs. Found only in the traditional proclamation of the annual fair at Langholm, Dumfriesshire (see J. & R. Hyslop Langholm (1912) 557).Dmf. 1731 Gentleman's Mag. I. 123:
He shall have his Lugs tacked to the muckle Trone, with a Nail of twal a Penny, untill he down of his Hobshanks, and up with his muckle Doaps, and pray to Hea'n, neen times God bless the King.
