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.
¶SKALRAG, n., adj.
I. n. A tatterdemalion, a ragged person (Slk. 1825 Jam.).
II. adj. Shabby (Id.).
[The second element appears to be rag; for the first Jam. suggests Skail, “one who gives his rags to the wind,” but this is doubtful. ? Cf. arch. Eng. scalled, scabby, scurvy (see Scaw).]
