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.
HOWSY, n., adj. Also hawsy, hosy.
I. n. A person who is awkward in his movements and has a rough and untidy appearance (Lnk. 1957).
II. adj. Untidy or slovenly in work or habits (Ib.).
[Prob. imit., on analogy with blowzy, frowzy, Towsie, id.]
