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.
KNOWIN', n. A small quantity, a little bit (Uls. 1880 Patterson Gl.; Wgt., Uls. 1960). Cf. Kennin, id. A borrowing from Ir. dial.Wgt. 1882 Mod. Sc. Poets (Edwards) IV. 192:
Ye'll aye hae eneuch and a knowin' to spare.