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.
NILD, v., n.1 Also njild, näild. [n(j)ɪld, nəild]
I. v. To whimper discontentedly, to grumble continually (Sh. 1908 Jak. (1928)), to beg importunately (Sh. a.1891 E.D.D.). Ppl.adj. nildin, whimpering (Jak.).Sh. 1908 Jak. (1928):
De bairn was nildin i' my face. . . . A nildin bairn. Dey nilded or näilded de (t)ane at de tidder.
II. n. An aching, continuous pain, as of toothache (Jak.).
[Cf. Norw. dial. gnell, a wail, continual complaining, gnella, to scream, Sw. dial. gnäll, persistent request, gnalla, to wail.]
