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.
RAWLEY, adj. Also rally. Ugly, unhandsome, mean (Ork. 1845 Stat. Acc.2 XV. 96, 1866 Edm. Gl.). Comb. rawley-tongued, rude or improper in language (Ork. 1929 Marw.).
[Of uncertain etym. ? Cf. Norw. dial. raal, untidiness, but phs. extended usages of Rawlie below.]
