General
gie it laldy
What does gie it laldy mean?
To sing, dance or perform loudly and wholeheartedly.
"The whole pub was giein' it laldy at the karaoke."
Origin
Scots phrase; 'laldy' meant a thrashing or beating, so 'gie it laldy' originally implied giving something a real hammering, now broadened to full-effort enthusiasm. Exact origin of 'laldy' is uncertain.
Frequently asked questions
What does 'gie it laldy' mean?
It means to do something with full energy and enthusiasm, giving it everything you've got.
What does 'laldy' mean on its own?
Old Scots for a beating or thrashing; the phrase 'gie it laldy' grew out of that into meaning all-out effort.
How do you use 'gie it laldy' in a sentence?
Usually about singing, dancing, or trying hard — 'the band were giein' it laldy' means they were going for it full pelt.
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