Scottish National Dictionary (1700–)
Hide Quotations Hide Etymology
About this entry:
First published 1971 (SND Vol. VIII).
This entry has not been updated since then but may contain minor corrections and revisions.
SQUIR, v. Also squirr. [skwɪr]
1. To throw with a sideways skimming motion, to pitch or toss aside; to make (a flat stone) skim over water (Gall. 1824 MacTaggart Gallov. Encycl. 435). Obs. in Eng. exc. dial.Wgt. 1803 R. Couper Tourifications I. 102:
I squirred the card into the fire.
2. To fly off quickly, to take to flight. Also in Eng. dial.Fif. 1812 W. Tennant Anster Fair iv. xviii.:
Alarm'd the timid doves . . . Poise th' unsteady wing, and squir in air away.