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Scottish National Dictionary (1700–)

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

PICKEREL, n. Also pickerell. The dunlin, Pelidna alpina (Sc. 1808 Jam., 1885 C. Swainson Brit. Birds 193); any small wading bird (Ib.).m.Sc. 1906 J. A. Harvie-Brown Fauna Tay 295:
“Pickerell” became the common designation of most of the small waders — generically — in local acceptation.

[From Pick, v.1, or picker, + -rel s.v. -le, suffix 2. Cf. cockerel.]

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