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.
‡IEROE, n. Also airoe (Sc. 1911 S.D.D.), -oy, jeroy (Sh. 1866 Edm. Gl.), ere oy (Sh. 1914 Angus Gl.), †heir-oye; eri-oy (Ork. 1845 Stat. Acc.2 XV. 96, Ork. 1958), eerieoe, -oy; eer-oye. A great-grandchild (w.Sc. 1808 Jam.; ‡Cai. 1958).Ork. 1701 J. Brand Descr. Ork. 71:
There was also one Laurentius in the parish of Waes, whose Heir-Oyes do yet live there.Ayr. 1786 Burns To G. Hamilton 111–13:
Till his wee, curlie John's ier-oe, The last, sad, mournful rites bestow!Ork. 1931 J. Leask Peculiar People 133:
Sibbie waas a slesterin' pell, is 'er oys an' eerie oys waar efter 'er.Cai.3 1931:
“If he gets 'at he can tocher his eer-oyes”: said of one coming into unexpected fortune.
