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.
SHEER, adj.1, v.
I. adj. Sc. usage: waggish, tricky. Phr. a sheer dog, a wag (Sc. 1825 Jam.). See also Shire, adj. It is not certain that this is the application in the following quot. where sheer may be a misprint for Skeer, restive, of a horse, q.v.Kcd. 1820 E. Tevendale Poems 15:
In cart or plough, was never backward Like sulky nag, that's sheer and awkward.
II. v. To pour off a liquid, esp. to pour the top and leave the dregs (Ayr. 1921 T.S.D.C.; Lnk. 1970). Hence sheerings, the liquid poured off from steeped Sowans (Rs., Crm. 1921 T.S.D.C.). See also Shire, v.
[Sheer, orig. = clear, pure, is from Mid.Eng. schere, a by-form of Shire, adj., v., q.v. For II. cf. Mid.Eng. schere, to make pure, of water: to run clear.]
