Scottish National Dictionary (1700–)
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First published 1956 (SND Vol. IV).
This entry has not been updated since then but may contain minor corrections and revisions.
GAVELOCK, n.2 Also gavelag (Cai.), gaavlo (Ork.). An earwig (Ayr. 1825 Jam.; Cai.7 1954); “an insect like an earwig but about twice as long” (Cai. 1900 E.D.D.); “a broad black beetle” (Ork.5 1954).
[Of the same origin as Gavelock,n.1 from the forceps-like appendages. Cf. Gablo, Gellock, n.2, Golach.]
