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.
RUNK, v.2 To whisper secret slanders, to endeavour to undermine someone's character, to satirize (Ayr. 1825 Jam.).
[Late Mid.Eng. runk, id. Cf. Flem. ronken, to mutter, speak covertly about.]
