Scots Blog
The Scots language has a rich tradition, and abounds with marvellous words. This blog will regularly show a different Scots or Gaelic word with its English equivalent. I hope that you will enjoy them as much as I do!
Linda Gilmore Sutherland
WHILLYWHA 10/10/2016
by Linda - 01:01 on 10 October 2016
WHILLYWHA = TO WHEEDLE; A FLATTERER
This is another of those versatile words which can be used as either a verb or a noun (non-Scots people please note that the word is pronounced willywa). It has the meaning of a flatterer who wheedles or cajoles to get his way.
And a further note: please do not confuse THIS 'whillywha' with the 'willie-waught' in the last verse of Auld Lang Syne, although they are pronounced the same way!
And we’ll tak' a right gude willie-waught,
for auld lang syne.
In this case, a willie-waught corresponds to a hearty swig of ale or another liquour!
