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.
VAREEZ, v. Also varies, varis(h) (Jak.); vareezie. [′vɑriz]
‡1. tr. To notice, observe (Sh. a.1838 Jam. MSS. XI. 226, 1866 Edm. Gl., 1914 Angus Gl.).Sh. 1893 Sinclair MS. 10:
He vareezies da glab o' da hoose wi da reek bolin tro every krahead.
2. intr. To be doubtful, hesitate (Sh. 1908 Jak. (1928)).
[From Vaar, v.1, n.1, but the formation is somewhat unclear, poss. by conflation with Vertise. Cf. also Norw. vare sig, O.N. varast, refl., to be on one's guard against, beware.]
