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.
SIDIER DHU, n. A soldier in the Independent Companies (later the Black Watch Regiment). Orig. Gael., and only in liter. use in Sc. [Gael. ′sɑɪtjər′tu]Sc. 1814 Scott Waverley xvii.:
The Sidier Dhu? the black soldier; that is what they call the independent companies that were raised to keep peace and law in the Highlands. . . . They call them Sidier Dhu, because they wear the tartans, — as they call your men, King George's men, — Sidier Roy, or red soldiers.Lth. 1928 S. A. Robertson With Double Tongue 40:
And garb you like the sidier dhu In kilt and plaid.
