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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.

PINKERTON, n. A feeble-minded person, a person of low intellect, a simpleton (Gall. 1824 MacTaggart Gallov. Encycl. 382). Also pinkie, id. (Ib.).

[Phs. a deriv. of Pink, n.2, sc. one who has a small brain or only a glimmer of intelligence, formed after simpleton and the prop. name Pinkerton.]

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