A history of Scottish insults
The Scots language was the country’s original tongue, dating back 1,400 years ago.
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Hide AdDuring the Middle Ages the language developed and grew apart from its sister tongue in England, until a distinct Scots language had evolved.
At one time Scots was the national language of Scotland, spoken by Scottish kings, and was used to write the official records of the country.
Now the Scots language becomes a point of pride with some people, using words that - outside of some regions of Scotland - have never been heard.
And with the ability to deliver a well timed insult viewed as almost an art form, by using some of these simple phrases, you’ll never be left tongue tied with a red face.
We take a look at some very Scottish insults, let us know if we’ve missed any off the list:
Awa’ n bile yer heid - Get lost
Bampot - Idiot
Boggin - foul-smelling
Bowfin - unpleasant
Clipe “Don’t be a wee clipe” - tattle-tale, snitch
Doaty - Stupid, simple
Dobber - Idiot, jerk
Doolally - Not the full shilling
Eejit - Idiot
Feartie - Coward
Gommy - Simple-looking, idiot
Gowk - fool, simpleton
Hackit - Ugly
Howlin’ - Smelly
Jakey - Alcoholic
Lavvy heid - Toilet head
Midden - dirty, unkempt
Mince “You’re talking mince” - Rubbish
Numpty - Idiot
Naff - Boring, rubish
Roaster - Idiot
Rocket - Insane, unpredictable
Scabby - Dirty
Shut yer pus - Shut up; shut your mouth
Tube - Idiot
Yer aff yer heid - You’re crazy
Yer bum’s oot the windae - You’re talking nonsense; not making sense