Dictionaries of the Scots Language
Dictionars o the Scots Leid

Scottish National Dictionary (1700–)

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About this entry:
First published 1941 (SND Vol. II).
This entry has not been updated since then but may contain minor corrections and revisions.

CLAICH, v. and n. See also Kllauch. [klex]

1. v. (1) “To besmear; (2) to turn a semi-liquid, or viscous substance over and over; to poke in such a substance; (3) to work in liquid or semi-liquid substances in a dirty, disgusting manner; (4) to walk through mud, or over wet soil in a tawdry, dirty manner; (5) to expectorate much” (Bnfr. 1866 Gregor D. Bnff. 219). Also ppl.adj. claichin', “dirty, untidy, and unskilful” (Ib.). Gregor says that claich indicates greater disgust than Claik, v.², n.², q.v.(3) Bnff.² 1940:
Come oot of that, Tammy, an' dinna claich amo' the dubs a' day.

2. n. The noun is used with meanings corresponding to the verb, according to Gregor, who gives one example, viz. “He keepit a claich amon's dainner, an' widna sup it.” In this sense known also to Bnff.² 1940.

Hence claichie, adj., “viscous; dauby” (Gregor).