Scottish National Dictionary (1700–)
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First published 1971 (SND Vol. VIII).
This entry has not been updated since then but may contain minor corrections and revisions.
SHAM. v.1 To twist, distort, crook; esp. of the features, to make a wry face, to grimace (Sh. 1970). Hence sham-gabbit, -mou(th)ed, having the lower jaw protruding beyond the upper, with a projecting under-lip (m.Sc. 1970). See also shan-gabbit s.v. Shan. Adj. shammie, crooked, bent, deformed, in comb. shammie-leggit, bandy-legged (Per., Slg., Gsw. 1970).Lnk. 1897 J. Wright Scenes Sc. Life 42:
There were the old “sham-gabbit” bulldogs, and also the Newfoundlands.Sh. 1891 J. Burgess Rasmie's Büddie 13:
He twisted his face up and girned an shammed.
