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.
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!
