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.
MELDROP, n. Also meldrap. A pendant drop of liquid: specif. a drop of mucus at the end of the nose (Lnk., Rxb. 1825 Jam.; ‡Rxb. 1923 Watson W.-B.); the drop at the end of an icicle (Rxb. 1825 Jam.); the foam at a horse's mouth as a result of mouthing the bit (s.Sc. Ib.). Also in n.Eng. dial.Rxb. 1825 Jam.:
There is a common phrase among the peasantry in Roxburgh, when one good turn is solicited, in prospect of a grateful requital; “Dight the meldrop frae my nose, and I'll wear the midges frae yours”.
