Scottish National Dictionary (1700–)
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First published 1971 (SND Vol. VIII).
This entry has not been updated since then but may contain minor corrections and revisions.
SCRIMGE, v., n. Also scrymge. [skr(ɑ)ɪmdʒ]
I. v. 1. To rub, scrub or beat vigorously (Bnff. 1866 Gregor D. Bnff. 150).
2. To search thoroughly, to scour about as in search of something, to hunt high and low (Gregor). Deriv. scrimger, scrymger, †an avaricious money-grubbing person, one who is greedy beyond reason or need (Rxb. 1825 Jam.); a rude disagreeable person (Bnff. 1866 Gregor D. Bnff. 150).
II. n. 1. A hard rubbing or beating (Bnff. 1866 Gregor D. Bnff. 150).
2. A thorough hunting or searching (Id.).
[A reduced form of scrimmage, s.v. Scrim, v.1, n.1]
