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.
SPAGHLIN, n. Ostentatious vain behaviour, conceited posturing. Gael.Sc. 1830 Scott Tales Grandfather lxxv.:
Some [Highland] chiefs, with the spaghlin, or assumption of consequence not uncommon to the Celtic race, had addicted themselves to expenses and luxuries to which their incomes were not equal.Sc. 1830 Scott Letters (Cent. ed.) XI. 379:
The Highland gentlemen are fond of spaghlin as they call it, a sort of showy vanity.
