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.
¶KRAB, n. In phr. krab of fish, see quot. Cf. Kettle, 3.Twd. 1790 J. Macdonald Travels 45:
The noblemen and gentlemen that have estates by the Tweed side, in the summer and harvest give what they call a kettle of fish . . . They all have marquees for the purpose, which they pitch near the banks of the river. Orders are given for a large dinner, and plenty of wine and punch. The fishermen take the salmon out of the water, and at that moment cut them in pieces, throw them into boiling water, and when done, serve them up on table. This treat is called a “krab of fish”.
