I think my DAR friend was not saying that the Scottish are "tight wads." She was saying the word "scotch" means "tight wad." She was trying to make a point that we are saying it wrong. That we should refer to them as Scots and not Scotch. I, too, come from a wonderful line and am not slamming our line. I just thought I would put it on the list and wake us up from the long winter months and start some discussion. I absolutely am not saying I agree with my friend. I am just sharing what she said and wanted us to open a discussion. No harm intended. Since there has been some response to my message, I pulled out my "Webster's Dictionary." (which I should have done before I sent the message.) Scotch noun 1. (plural in number) The people of Scotland 2. Scots 3. Scotch whisky Scotch adjective 1. Of or pertaining to the people, language, or culture of Scotland. 2. Close with one's money:Thrifty. Scotch-Irish adjective Of, pertaining to, or characteristic of the people of northern Ireland who are of Scottish descent, esp. those who emigrated to America. This is interesting. Because I thought the Scotch-Irish were the people who are of Irish descent and live in Scotland. That shows you that I am never too old to learn, of which I am thankful. I will add here that my husband and I were privileged to go to Scotland two summers ago. We toured Melrose Abbey which has the old tombstone for Dr. John Reid. Again......no insults were intended.