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: 1827-1847, 1925
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WHOW, int., n. An exclamation of astonishment or surprise, gen. in a sorrowful or regretful fashion, also expressing weariness (Sc. 1825 Jam.; Rxb. 1923 Watson W.-B., 1942 Zai; Bwk. 1942 Wettstein; Slg., Fif., Bwk., Rxb. 1974). For eh whow, see Eh. Used as n. in 1847 quot.Sc. 1827 Blackwood's Mag. (July) 65:
Whow, man, but ye are sair in the dark!Rxb. 1847 J. Halliday Rustic Bard 176:
Nae mair we're grainin' whows or sirses.Rxb. 1925 E. C. Smith Mang Howes 14:
Whow! yon brae o the Caslegate o Jethart!
