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.
PIRRIE, v. Also para-. To follow (a person) around, dog another's footsteps (Kcd. 1825 Jam.). Comb. pirrie-dog (Ib.), para- (Ags. 1825 Jam.) a dog which is always at its master's heels; fig., a sycophant, parasite, sponger (Jam.).
[? From Pirr, v., 1. The form in para- prob. arises from confusion with or a play on parasite. Henryson's pirrie dog does not appear to be connected.]
