KAIL THROUGH THE REEK, phr. (Scots’).—Bitter language or hard usage. [In allusion to the unpalateableness of smoky broth. TO GIVE ONE HIS KAIL THROUGH THE REEK = to reprove violently; to punish with severity.]
1817. SCOTT, Rob Roy, iii. 75. If he brings in the Glengyle folk, and the Glenfinlas and Balquhidder lads, he may come to GIE YOU YOUR KAIL THROUGH THE REEK.
1827–30. SCOTT, Tales of My Landlord, iii. 12. They set till the sodgers, and I think they GAE THEM THEIR KAIL THROUGH THE REEK.
