'Sawney' - local version of Sandy, short for Alexander, a derisive nickname for a Scotsman, a simpleton, also foolish, foolishly sentimental. (The Shorter Oxford English Dictionary). 'Sawney' - a stage Scotsman, hence a caricature, a foolish person. (Bartley). See 'H.L.I.'. 'Sawney' - a fool (general use Ireland and England). (Wright).