Scottish National Dictionary (1700–)
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About this entry:
First published 1976 (SND Vol. X, list of Scottish personal names).
This entry has not been updated since then but may contain minor corrections and revisions.
RAB. Also Rabbie (Sc. a.1734 R. Wodrow Life J. Wodrow (1828) 95; Fif. 1894 J. W. McLaren Tibbie and Tam 35). Pet forms of Robert (Ayr. 1785 Burns Halloween vi., Edb. 1811 H. MacNeill Bygane Times 37, Per., Fif., Lth., Ayr. 1915–26 Wilson; Rxb. 1942 Zai), now somewhat absol. See P.L.D. §54. The female form Rabina is found (Lnk. 1709 Minutes J.P.s (S.H.S.) 59, 62).