Scottish National Dictionary (1700–)
Hide Quotations Hide Etymology
About this entry:
First published 1960 (SND Vol. V).
This entry has not been updated since then but may contain minor corrections and revisions.
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.
