Scottish National Dictionary (1700–)
Hide Quotations Hide Etymology
About this entry:
First published 1952 (SND Vol. III).
This entry has not been updated since then but may contain minor corrections and revisions.
DAIDLE, v.3, tr. and intr. To fondle a child, to toss it (on the knee); used of the child: to be fondled or tossed. Known to Abd.2, Abd.9 1939. Also found in Der. dial. (E.D.D.).Sc. 1928 J. Wilson Hamespun 11:
As gloamin' fa's, she likes to knit, Or Betty's bairnie daidle.Ags. 1896 J. M. Barrie Sentimental Tommy xxvii.:
In thae grite arms o' his he could daidle her as if she were an infant.Lnk. 1922 T. S. Cairncross Scot at Hame 58:
Wee Tiddle-Toddle Daidlin' on my knee.
