Scottish National Dictionary (1700–)
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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.
RAMSKEERIE, adj., n. Also ramskerie. [rɑm′skiri]
I. adj. Very restive and lustful, as of a ram (Gall. 1824 MacTaggart Gallov. Encycl. 427).Sc. 1991 Roderick Watson in Tom Hubbard The New Makars 107:
Say, 'Rise up my boy, rejoice
In youthheid's ramskeerie way';
But ach there is anither lay
He sings, a laithlie mass
- That youth an aa the floures o May
Are nocht but slime an vanitas.
II. n. A wild hilarious romp, one who is almost hysterical as a result of this (w.Sc. 1880 Jam., ram-ske(e)rie, s.v. ske(e)rie).
[Ram-, pref., + Skeerie.]
