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.
UNBEKNOWINS, adj., adv. Also -beknownst. Unperceived, unnoticed, in a secret or unobtrusive manner (Abd., Ags., Per. 1973). Also in colloq. or dial. Eng. Also with to, unknown to, unnoticed by. Cf. Unknowinst, Unwittins.Fif. 1897 S. Tytler Witch-Wife vi.:
Do you ever feel as if you could read folks' thoughts as plain as print unbeknownst to your neighbours?Arg. 1917 A. W. Blue Quay Head Tryst 77:
A man micht maist lose sicht o' wee odd drams an' be took drunk unbeknowin's.Arg. 1951 Scots Mag. (March) 454:
Sheena, aal unbeknownst, had been extra friendly with a young fellow.
