subs. (prison).—A simpleton. (Scots’ GOWK = a cuckoo). For synonyms, see BUFFLE and CABBAGE-HEAD. Also a countryman. For synonyms, see JOSKIN.
1816. SCOTT, The Antiquary, ch. x. ‘Hout awa’, ye auld GOWK,’ said Jenny Rintherout.
TO HUNT THE GOWK, verb. phr. (common).—To go on a fool’s errand.
