Dictionaries of the Scots Language
Dictionars o the Scots Leid

Scottish National Dictionary (1700–)

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About this entry:
First published 1934 (SND Vol. I). Includes material from the 1976 supplement.
This entry has not been updated since then but may contain minor corrections and revisions.

BARGAIN, n. and v. Also bargane, bergin (Slk. 1893 J. Dalgleish W. Wathershanks 13). [′bɑrgɪn Sc. but m.Sc. + ′bǫrgən]

1. n. Contention, struggle. Obs.Bnff. 1898 W.G. in E.D.D.:
Still in use among older folk.Abd. 1768 A. Ross Helenore 94:
Sair bargain made our hirds to hadd again, But what needs mair, a' was but wark in vain.

Comb. barganebyding, ready to face an opponent, standing up to threats or criticism.Abd. a.1838 Jam. MSS. X. 63: 
If one threatens another, saying, "I'll no let you pass with that," the reply frequently is, "Weel, weel, I'se be bargane-byding ye."

2. v. To contend.Abd. 1768 A. Ross Helenore 95:
The lass . . . bargains teugh an' sair, That Lindy there, sud by his promise byde.