gilravage
Definitions
Century Dictionary and Cyclopedia
- n. A merrymaking; a noisy frolic, particularly among young people; depredation; great disorder.
- v. To commit wild and lawless depredation; plunder; spoil.
The origin of this word is unknown but may be related to ‘ravage,’ to wreak destruction.
Examples
“The feet washin’ ploy, on the eve o’ the waddin’-day, was anither business that had to be gane aboot, an’ what fun an’ gilravage we did kick up at that job!”
Tammas Bodkin: Swatches o' hodden-grey, by William Duncan Latto
“‘Where have you been so long,’ asked her mistress, as she came in. ‘Juist drivin' a gilravagin' muckle swine oot o' the or chard!’ replied Jess with some force and truth.”
