A Dictionary of the Older Scottish Tongue (up to 1700)
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First published 1937 (DOST Vol. I).
This entry has not been updated since then but may contain minor corrections and revisions.
Barlafummil, Also: barlaw-, -fumble. [Cf. mod. Sc. barley in children's games.] 1. An exclamation requesting a truce in fighting or play. —15.. Christis K. 159 (B).
Fra his thowme thay dang a sklys, quhill he cryd barla fummyll [M. barlaw fummill] 1640 Maidment Balfour Ballads (1834) 35.
Do not goe To fight, lest ye, when canons rumble, With shame for fear cry barlafumble ?a1648 Drummond Polemo-Med. 164.
Greittans, lookansque grivatè, Barlafumle clamat
2. A fall or tumble. —1681 Colvil Whig's Suppl. ii. 12.
When Coachmen drinks, & Horses stumble, It's hard to miss a Barlafumble
