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Scottish National Dictionary (1700–)

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About this entry:
First published 1960 (SND Vol. V).
This entry has not been updated since then but may contain minor corrections and revisions.

†KIRMEW, n. Also by misprint kirinew (Cai. 1887 Harvie-Brown and Buckley Fauna Cai. 228). The common tern, Sterna hirundo.Sh., Ork. 1806 P. Neill Tour 202:
In both sets of islands, as well as in the south of Scotland, the names kirmew, tarney.

[Cf. obs. Eng. kirmew, ad. Ger. kirrmöwe, a sea-swallow, tern, the first syllable being imit. of the bird's chattering call.]

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