We use cookies to enhance your experience on our website. By clicking 'continue' or by continuing to use our website, you are agreeing to our use of cookies. You can change your cookie settings in your browser at any time.

Continue
Find out more

Scottish National Dictionary (1700–)

Hide Quotations Hide Etymology

Abbreviations Cite this entry

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

SMIRN, n. “A smug, officious person, especially one of insignificant appearance” (Rxb. 1923 Watson W.-B.).

[Orig. doubtful. Phs. an extended usage of smirrin, Smirr, a drizzle, sc. something slightly annoying but of no substance or importance. Cf. sim. metaphor in mod. Eng. slang shower.]

24655

snd