Scottish National Dictionary (1700–)
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First published 1965 (SND Vol. VI).
This entry has not been updated since then but may contain minor corrections and revisions.
MACDONALDS' DISEASE, n.phr. An affection of the lungs, believed to be cured miraculously by particular members of the family of MacDonald of the Isles. Called by T. Pennant Tour 1772 (1776) II. 41 the Macdonalds disorder.Per. 1795 Stat. Acc.1 V. 84:
It is called the Macdonald's disease because there are particular tribes of Macdonalds who are believed to cure it with the charms of their touch and the use of a certain set of words. There must be no fee given of any kind.
