Scottish National Dictionary (1700–)
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First published 1968 (SND Vol. VII).
This entry has not been updated since then but may contain minor corrections and revisions.
PELCHER, n. The grey mullet, Mugil chelo (Cai. 1887 Harvie-Brown and Buckley Fauna Cai. 270, 1907 County of Cai. (Horne) 405, Cai. 1965).
[Appar. a corruption of Eng. pilchard, with transf. meaning.]