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Scottish National Dictionary (1700–)

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About this entry:
First published 1965 (SND Vol. VI).
This entry has not been updated since then but may contain minor corrections and revisions.

ORISHON, n. Also orishen. “A term of reproach for a savage-behaved individual” (Gall. 1824 MacTaggart Gallov. Encycl. 367), an odd-looking, useless, insignificant person (Ayr., Gall. 1964).Kcb. 1901 Gallovidian X. 73:
Ye meeserable lookin' orishon, ye!

[Etym. doubtful. E.D.D. suggests connection with Orson, the bear-child of the 15th-c. Fr. fable, Fr. ourson, a little bear, but ?]

19903

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