Scotch (adjective) "Scotch" to describe a jig, but always employed the term "Scottish" when people were the subject. "Scots" (the modern Scots language form of early Scots "Scottis") predominated in Scotland until the 18th century when anglicisation became fashionable and "Scotch" came to be used in both England and Scotland. A 1788 letter by Robert Burns says in part: "Apropos, is not the Scotch phrase "Auld lang syne" exceedingly expressive? There is an old song and tune which has often thrilled through my soul. You know I am an enthusiast in old Scotch songs." ("Auld Lang Syne" in "The Burns Encyclopedia", at
Auld Lang Syne to the middle, while still holding hands. When the circle is re-established, everyone turns under the arms to end up facing outwards with hands still joined. In countries other than Scotland the hands are often crossed from the beginning of the song at variance with Scottish custom. The Scottish practice was demonstrated by the Queen at the Millennium Dome celebrations for the year 2000. The English press berated her for not "properly" crossing her arms, unaware that she was correctly following the Scottish tradition. As well as celebrating the New Year, "Auld Lang Syne" is very widely used to symbolise