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Scottish National Dictionary (1700–)

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About this entry:
First published 1971 (SND Vol. VIII).
This entry has not been updated since then but may contain minor corrections and revisions.

SMEEG, n.2, v. Also smig (Jak.), smik-; smeegs-. [smig]

I. n. A complacent smile, a smirk; a leering expression; a furtive or mocking smile (Sh. 1908 Jak. (1928), smig).Sh. 1961 New Shetlander No. 58. 16:
“O no!” he replied, wi a kind o a smeeg.

II. v. To smile in a leering or knowing way, to smirk complacently or mockingly (Sh. 1908 Jak. (1928), Sh. 1970). See also Smicker. Ppl.adj. smeegsit, smug, complacent (Sh. 1970).Sh. 1952 J. Hunter Taen wi da Trow 84:
Drake smeegit till himsell an says, “Whin dis is done, A'll do fir you!”
Sh. 1968 New Shetlander No. 84. 18:
I jüst smeeget an höld me tongue.

[Cf. Norw. dial. smikja, Dan. dial. smige, to ingratiate oneself, Sw. smeka, to flatter, caress.]

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