Sc. humorous. A small proprietor who cultivates his own land; a yeoman.
1721. Kelly, Sc. Prov., 362 (Jam.). You breed of Water Kail, and cock Lairds, you need mickle Service.
1816. Scott, Old Mort., Concl. Niel Blane … died worth as much money as married Jenny to a cock laird.
1837. Lockhart, Scott, xxxvii. The property had been in the hands of various small holders (Scotticè, cock lairds).
