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).
This entry has not been updated since then but may contain minor corrections and revisions.

POLLYWAG, n. A tadpole (Per., Fif., Ayr. 1966). Also in Eng. dial., and phs. a borrowing thence into Sc.Per. 1879 R. M. Fergusson Village Poet 179:
[He] frantic filled the dish, Wi' newts, an' frogs, an' pollywags.

[Mid.Eng. polwygle, id. Cf. Powheid.]

21105

snd