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.
JANET JO, n.phr. A children's singing game or rustic play (w. and sm.Sc. 1826 R. Chambers Pop. Rhymes 299; Ags. 1959). Also known in Eng. under the title of Jenny Jones. For details and examples of the numerous versions of the rhyme see A. B. Gomme Trad. Games (1894) I. 260–283.Kcb. 1847 R. Chambers Pop. Rhymes 276:
Janet Jo is a dramatic entertainment amongst young rustics.
