Scottish National Dictionary (1700–)
Hide Quotations Hide Etymology
About this entry:
First published 1974 (SND Vol. IX).
This entry has not been updated since then but may contain minor corrections and revisions.
STARRIE, n. Dim. form of star (rock), a sweet orig. made as a speciality in Kirriemuir in Angus, so called because in crystallising after being rolled the rock in section assumes a star-like appearance (see quots.) (Ags. 1971); also used jocularly as a nickname for an inhabitant of Kirriemuir.Ags. 1909 A. Reid Regality Kirriemuir 201:
Star Rock, or “Starrie”, a packet of which is the favourite present between friends. . . . David Ferguson, who commenced the manufacture and sale of Star Rock as early as 1833.Ags. 1958 Scotsman (19 April) 5:
Starrie Rock is cut in quite short pieces, no thicker than your finger.Ags. 1960 Forfar Dispatch (20 Oct.):
A Kirrie girl-friend of a Forfar loon was always alluded to as a “Starrie” to show her her proper place — a little lower than the Forfarians.
