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.
Quotation dates: 1824, 1925
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‡KIM, adj., n.1 Also deriv. kimis (Abd.4 1928).
I. adj. Spirited, frolicsome, lively (Abd., Kcb. 1825 Jam.; Abd. 1960); spruce, nimble, neat, dainty (Abd. 1825 Jam., 1932 Dieth 44, Abd. 1960), occas. of things as well as persons.Abd. 1824 G. Smith Douglas 136:
Ne'er shall we a better story hear, Than that kim banter with the brigs of Ayr.Abd. 1925 R. L. Cassie Gangrel Muse 33:
They're hoochin' an' loupin' as kim as can be.
II. n. A short, slim, smart person (Abd.4 1928).
[Orig. unknown, phs. imit. of quick, alert movement. Cf. Gim, Jim, Mim.]
