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.
Quotation dates: 1884, 1957
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HUMBUG, v., n. Sc. extension of meaning of Eng. humbug, to hoax, impose upon. In pass., to be humbugged with, to be pestered or bothered with (ne.Sc. 1957). Also n., a nuisance, an imposition (ne.Sc. 1957).Inv. 1884 Crofters' Comm. Evid. I. 604:
May I ask why it was that you gave up the charge of the estate? — Because I could not be humbugged with it. I did not care to be trying to govern people that would not be governed.Kcb. 1957 Bulletin (1 Nov.):
The council had been humbugged for too long with tenants refusing to take houses.
