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.
†UMBERSORROW, adj. Also -sorrie, numbersorrow (Jam.).
1. Fit, robust, sturdy, resisting disease or the effects of severe weather (Rxb. 1923 Watson W.-B.).s.Sc. 1808 Jam.:
An umbersorrow bairn.Bwk. c.1850 Scotsman (26 Jan. 1912):
“Deed, sir, I am wonnerfu', but no vera umbersorrie” — robust or convalescent.
2. Rugged, uncultivated; or surly disposition, rude (Lth. 1808 Jam.).
3. Weakly, delicate (Rxb. 1825 Jam.), poss. a misunderstanding of 1.
[Orig. obscure.]
