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.
TOITLE, v., n. Also tytle. [tɔitl: ne.Sc. təitl]
I. v. 1. To walk with short slow or feeble steps, to totter, toddle, to idle about aimlessly (Bnff. 1866 Gregor D. Bnff. 203; ne.Sc. 1972). Also in n.Eng. dial. Ppl.adj. toitlin, pottering, ineffectual.Dmf. 1869 A. C. Gibson Cmb. Folk-Speech 102:
Auld Wullye Smyth cam toytlan' benne.ne.Sc. 1921 Swatches o' Hamespun 13:
For a daidlin', toitlin' sharger.Abd. 1961 Buchan Observer (31 Jan.):
I was tytlin' awa' doon the wye o' the smiddy.
2. To run about in an ingratiating or obsequious manner; with after: to dance attendance on (Bnff., Abd. 1972).
II. n. 1. A short quick or uncertain step or gait, a toddle (Bnff. 1866 Gregor D. Bnff. 203; ne.Sc. 1972).
2. A person of small stature (Gregor).
[Dim. or freq. form of Toit; cf. Toiter above, and dytle s.v. Dyte.]
