Scottish National Dictionary (1700–)
Hide Quotations Hide Etymology
About this entry:
First published 1965 (SND Vol. VI).
This entry has not been updated since then but may contain minor corrections and revisions.
†MARR, v. 1. To make a throaty noise, as of a cat purring or a child gurgling (Cld. 1880 Jam.).
2. With up, of cats: to make a throaty, snarling noise when preparing to fight (Ib.); fig. to urge one on in a bad-tempered manner (Ib.).
[Imit. in orig. Cf. Murr.]