Scottish National Dictionary (1700–)
Hide Quotations Hide Etymology
About this entry:
First published 1971 (SND Vol. VIII).
This entry has not been updated since then but may contain minor corrections and revisions.
SPEERACK, n., adj. [′spirək]
I. n. A lively, alert person, a “will-of-the-wisp” (Cai., Rs., Inv. 1971).
II. adj. Quick, sharp in manner and features (Per. 1971).
[Poss. ad. Gael. speireag, spiorag, a sparrow-hawk, a tall, thin girl. Cf. Speelip.]
