Dictionaries of the Scots Language
Dictionars o the Scots Leid

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.

KITHAN, n. Also kithag, used of women (Cai. 1902 E.D.D., 1907 County of Cai. (Horne) 76, Cai.¹ c.1920). A term of reproach, a rascal, a blackguard (Ib., Cai. 1960); a mischievous tricky person (Cai.¹ c.1920). Also comb. kithan-face, id. (Cai.⁹ 1938); an imp, a demon, in phr. the auld (owld) kithan, the devil (Ib.). [′kɪθən]Cai. 1922 J. Horne Poems 41:
Yet, puir owld kithan, he [gull] maun live, For a' ma rage an' worry.Cai. 1930 John o' Groat Jnl. (21 Feb.) 2:
Time's a hungry kithan nane can fill.