The rapid-fire pace of Scottish speech can sometimes leave those from overseas – and even some just south of the border – scratching their heads trying to decipher what’s being said. While accents differ across Scotland, some are more robust than others. Coupled with our reputation for speedy speech, it’s not uncommon for Scots to be met with puzzled expressions during conversations.
Adding to this linguistic challenge are the unique words, phrases, and sayings that pepper the Scottish dialect, which can be a tough nut to crack for non-Scots. Even though English is the most widely spoken language in Scotland, the two native tongues – Scots and Gaelic – have left their mark on the everyday vocabulary.
To spice things up further, Scots have their own interpretations of common English words. This departure from standard meanings often amuses Scots who watch those unfamiliar with the vernacular try to make sense of it all.
The Daily Record has compiled a list of their favourite words along with their Scottish definitions to help you incorporate them into your daily chats
1. Coupon
What it usually means – A voucher to get a discount on a product, or an accumulator from a bookies.
Scottish meaning – A face.
2. Messages
What it usually means – Verbal or written communications.
Scottish meaning – Your shopping.
3. Flit
What it usually means – To move swiftly and lightly.
Scottish meaning – To move home.
4. Empty
What it usually means – Containing nothing.
Scottish meaning – A house party while someone’s parents or partner are away.
5. Burn
What it usually means – To damage using fire.
Scottish meaning – A wee stream.
6. Winch
What it usually means – A device using a rope or chain coiled round a drum that hauls or lifts things.
Scottish meaning – To kiss.
7. Greeting
What it usually means – A spoken welcome.
Scottish meaning – To cry.
8. How
What it usually means – How
Scottish meaning – Why
9. Aboot
What it usually means – A form of footwear.
Scottish meaning – About
10. Close
What it usually means – Nearby.
Scottish meaning – The communal passageway leading into a block of flats, often a tenement.
11. Baltic
What it usually means – Relating to the Baltic Sea or the surrounding region.
Scottish meaning – Freezing.
12. Piece
What it usually means – A section or part of something.
Scottish meaning – A sandwich.
13. Fit
What it usually means – Sporty.
Scottish meaning – What? (Doric)
14. Cry
What it usually means – To sob.
Scottish meaning – Call (What do you call/cry them?)
15. Steaming
What it usually means – Emitting steam.
Scottish meaning – Very drunk.
16. Coo
What it usually means – The noise a pigeon makes.
Scottish meaning – A cow (usually a Highland Cow).
17. Honking
What it usually means – The noise a goose makes.
Scottish meaning – Smelly.
18. Ken
What it usually means – A name for Barbie’s male companion, or the shortened version of Kenneth.
Scottish meaning – Know.
19. Patter
What it usually means – To make a repeated light tapping sound.
Scottish meaning – Wit, banter.
20. Patch
What it usually means – A piece of cloth used to mend a damaged piece of clothing.
Scottish meaning – To ignore someone.
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