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.
IRR, v. 1. Of dogs: to snarl, growl (Cai. 1958). Used fig. in quot.Sc. 1711 J. Kirkwood Hist. 27 Gods Lnl. 55:
A long and hot Bickering betwixt the two Bailies, grinning and irring one against the other, like two Mastiffs.
2. To call a dog to chase or hunt its quarry (Gall. 1824 MacTaggart Gallov. Encycl. 281; Arg. c.1895 per wm.Sc.1). Hence irr, irrnowt, int., calls to a dog to pursue cattle (Upp. Lnk. 1825 Jam.).
[Onomat.]
