We use cookies to enhance your experience on our website. By clicking 'continue' or by continuing to use our website, you are agreeing to our use of cookies. You can change your cookie settings in your browser at any time.

Continue
Find out more

Scottish National Dictionary (1700–)

Hide Quotations Hide Etymology

Abbreviations Cite this entry

About this entry:
First published 1968 (SND Vol. VII). Includes material from the 2005 supplement.
This entry has not been updated since then but may contain minor corrections and revisions.

†PERNICK, n. “A person who is precise in dress, in religion, or trifles” (Rnf. a.1850 Crawfurd MSS. (N.L.S.) P. 27), a stickler for detail, a fuss-pot (Fif. 1965). Edb. 2003:
Ye hae tae be a real pernick in this job.

[A back-formation from Pernicketie, q.v.]

20670

snd