Scottish National Dictionary (1700–)
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First published 1941 (SND Vol. II).
This entry has not been updated since then but may contain minor corrections and revisions.
BUMLACK, BUMLAK, BUMLICK, Bumlock, n. [′bʌmlək, ′bʌmlɪk]
1. “A small prominent shapeless stone, or whatever endangers one's falling, or proves a stumbling-block” (Abd. 1825 Jam.2, bumlak, bumlock; Sc. 1898 E.D.D., rare; Bnff.2, Abd.9 1937).Abd. 1872 J. G. Michie Deeside Tales xvii.:
When I had gathered half a dozen good bumlacks out o' the land, I lookit round, but my cousin wasna' there.
2. A clumsy mass; “any person or thing round and clumsy, resembling a barrel” (Abd.2 1937, bumlick). Known to Bnff.2 1937.Bch. 1928 (per Abd.15):
Some gey bumlicks o' clods.
3. A bungler.Id.:
Wis't yon bumlick 'at boached the job?
