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.
ILL-MOU, n., v. Also -mouth (Sh.).
I. n. Vile language, an abusive tongue, a disposition to use such language (Bnff. 1880 Jam., Bnff. 1958). Ppl.adj. ill-mou'd, impudent, insolent, abusive (n.Sc. 1825 Jam.; Sh., ne.Sc., Ags., m.Lth. 1958).Ags. 1887 Brechin Advertiser (25 Jan.) 3:
Man he's surely an awfu ill-mou'd scoondrel.
II. v. To employ abusive language (Bnff. 1866 Gregor D. Bnff. 88). Vbl.n. ill-mouan, abuse.Ib.:
The ill-mouan it they ga' the aul' man, wiz past a' spykan.
