Dictionaries of the Scots Language
Dictionars o the Scots Leid

Scottish National Dictionary (1700–)

Hide Quotations Hide Etymology

Abbreviations Cite this entry

About this entry:
First published 1974 (SND Vol. IX).
This entry has not been updated since then but may contain minor corrections and revisions.

STYAN, n. Also -en, styal (Cai.). A sty on the eyelid (n.Sc. 1825 Jam.; Kcb. 1896 66th Report Brit. Ass. 626; Cai. 1921 T.S.D.C.; Ork., Mry., Abd. 1971). Obs. in Eng. exc. dial. [′stɑeən; Cai. ′stɑeəl]Abd. 1748 Abd. Journal (5–12 April):
Something like Styan on his right Eye.Bnff. c.1890 Gregor MSS.:
The Styan. This pustule was cured by rubbing it with a “laamer” i.e. amber bead.