The weather regularly dominates headlines in Scotland and (as is the norm with Scottish habits) you can expect to hear many people complaining about it as that’s a popular national pastime. Most likely that’s why the word “dreich” (Scots for grey or damp weather) was voted the ‘most iconic Scots word’ a few years ago.
The University of Glasgow found 400 Scottish words for ‘snow’ and over a hundred for ‘rain’, but don’t be intimidated - here are just 37 Scottish terms to describe Scotland’s beloved yet chaotic weather.
5. The rain is God’s way o’ cleanin’ the coos
Although rain is culturally seen as 'depressing weather' this phrase reminds us that "every cloud has a silver lining" - what's miserable rain to you is a joyful shower for a Highland Coo. Photo: Gannet77 via Canva Pro
6. Taps Aff
A favourite phrase for Scotland's summers, if you're lucky enough to have a sunny day then it's "taps aff" (or tops/ t-shirts off) so you can enjoy the Vitamin D in full. Photo: bbtomas on Canva Pro
7. Goat's Hair
The Scottish phrase a "Goat's hair" refers to a cirrus cloud - a type of short, detached and hair-like cloud found at high altitudes. Photo: ineb1599 via Canva Pro
8. Baltic
You may hear a Scot refer to the weather as "pure baltic" in the Winter months, this just means it's freezing cold - like the Baltic sea. Photo: mediaphotos from Getty Images Signature