Scottish National Dictionary (1700–)
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First published 1976 (SND Vol. X).
This entry has not been updated since then but may contain minor corrections and revisions.
Quotation dates: 1721, 1899
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WAD, v.2 Also wald. To use the word wa(l)d, would, (see Will, v.1), in expressions such as "Wad that . . .," "I wad . . .," implying helplessness, indecision, or insincerity on the part of the speaker, as professing an intention he does not really mean, in vbl.n. waddin and agent n. wadder, walder, a person of this character. Used proverbially only.Sc. 1721 J. Kelly Proverbs 358:
Wishers and walders are poor Housholders.Sh. 1899 J. Spence Folk-Lore 216:
Wissin' an' waddin' are pör hoose haddin'.
