What Does 'Geggie' Mean in Scottish?

In Scottish, "geggie" refers to a person's mouth. It is a colloquial and somewhat informal term.

Understanding the Term 'Geggie'

"Geggie" is a distinctive piece of Scottish slang that has found its way into broader usage and even recognized dictionaries due to its commonality in the Scottish vernacular. It is almost exclusively used to denote the mouth, particularly in the context of being told to be quiet.

Common Usage and Context

The most prevalent use of "geggie" is within the imperative phrase:

• "Shut your geggie!"

This expression means "shut your mouth" or "be quiet," and it is often used when someone is being too loud, talking excessively, or saying something undesirable. While direct and to the point, it can sometimes be perceived as rude or blunt, depending on the tone and context.

For example, if a child is chattering incessantly or an adult is making an unwanted comment, someone might curtly say, "Awe, shut your geggie!"

Etymology and Recognition

Like many words in the Scots language, "geggie" adds to the rich tapestry of Scottish dialect. Its inclusion in comprehensive dictionaries signifies its established place within the Scottish linguistic landscape, demonstrating that what was once purely informal slang has gained recognition as a legitimate part of the language. This highlights the dynamic and evolving nature of regional dialects.

Examples in Everyday Scottish Speech

• "He never stops talking, always got something to say – can't he just shut his geggie for a minute?"
• "If you don't shut your geggie, you'll get yourself into trouble."
• "She opened her geggie to complain again, but thought better of it."

Key Aspects of 'Geggie'

To summarize the essence of "geggie" in Scottish:

This term is part of a vibrant tradition of unique Scottish words that add character and depth to everyday conversation. For more on Scottish language and its distinctive vocabulary, you can explore resources like the Dictionary of the Scots Language.