Scottish National Dictionary (1700–)
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First published 1952 (SND Vol. III).
This entry has not been updated since then but may contain minor corrections and revisions.
Quotation dates: 1862-1893
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CRANKIE, KRANKI(E), Cranky, adj. [′krɑŋki]
1. “Weakly, unsteady; not to be depended upon” (Sh. 1914 Angus Gl., kranki); “badly fitting, disjointed, insecure, . . . dangerous” (Clydesd. 1880 Jam.5, krankie). Known to Bnff.2, Ags.17, Fif.10, Lnk.11, Kcb.10 1940. This word has come to be accepted in St.Eng. usage.Lth. 1862 S. Smiles Engineers III. 90:
It was constantly getting out of order . . . at length it became so cranky that the horses were usually sent out after it to bring it along.
2. (See quot.)Ant. 1892 Ballymena Obs. (E.D.D.):
A youngster having an old-fashioned look for his years is called cranky. His wee cranky face.
3. Hard, difficult.Ags. 1893 Brechin Advertiser (29 Aug.) 3/6:
Oor scientific man began . . . [To] crack aboot auld Nature's plan In crankie wirds.
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"Crankie adj.". Dictionary of the Scots Language. 2004. Scottish Language Dictionaries Ltd. Accessed 19 Dec 2025 <http://www.dsl.ac.uk/entry/snd/crankie>
