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.
‡REEK, n.2 Also reik, reak. A wild irresponsible trick, a subterfuge, an artifice (Rxb. 1968). Obs. in Eng. since 17th c. Gen. in pl.Rxb. 1805 A. Scott Poems 107:
Defying a' art's patching reaks.Sc. 1817 Scott Rob Roy xxvi.:
Mony a daft reik he has played.Fif. 1899 S. Tytler Miss Nanse ix.:
Carrying out his reeks with the wretched lassie's money.
