Scottish National Dictionary (1700–)
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First published 1976 (SND Vol. X).
This entry has not been updated since then but may contain minor corrections and revisions.
CANONGATE, prop.n. Also Cannigate (Sc. 1717 Ramsay Poems (S.T.S.) I. 18). The name of a former burgh and street now part of the old town of Edinburgh, a rather disreputable quarter in the 18th c. Hence comb. Canongate breeks, a cant name for venereal disease.Edb. 1734 W. Mitchel Wonderful Sermon to Students 9:
It is commonly called the Clap, or Glengore, and now under the Name of the Canongate Breeks.
[From canon(s), of Holyrood Abbey, + Gate, n., 1.]
