Scottish National Dictionary (1700–)
Hide Quotations Hide Etymology
About this entry:
First published 1941 (SND Vol. II).
This entry has not been updated since then but may contain minor corrections and revisions.
BLACK STRAP, n.
1. Weak table-beer.Abd.(D) 1871 W. Alexander Johnny Gibb xxiv.:
I wud 'a gi'en a bottle o' black strap till 'a been there.
2. Black treacle.Bch. 1928 (per Abd.15); Abd.19 (Deeside) 1934:
We get a lick o' black strap to wir breid (oatcakes).