Scottish National Dictionary (1700–)
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First published 1974 (SND Vol. IX).
This entry has not been updated since then but may contain minor corrections and revisions.
†TARLE, v., n. Also tarl.
I. v. 1. To work lazily, to be of a lazy disposition (Bnff. 1866 Gregor D. Bnff. 190).
2. To labour under disease (Id.), to go about feebly as being unwell.
II. n. A small weak person or animal (Id.)
[Orig. doubtful. Phs. a back-formation from Tarloch, q.v.]
