A Dictionary of the Older Scottish Tongue (up to 1700)
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About this entry:
First published 1951 (DOST Vol. II).
This entry has not been updated since then but may contain minor corrections and revisions.
Distractioun(e, n. [e.m.E. distraction, ME. dystraccyon (c 1450), OF. distraction, L. distractio.] a. Diversion of thought. b. Mental derangement. —1562-3 Winȝet II. 17/8.
A quiet village and monasterie in it, quhare without grete distractioun that may cum to pass —1663 Glasgow B. Rec. III. 10.
To give weiklie to Patrik Baird … , during the tyme of his wyfes distractioune, twentie schilling Scotis 1666 Highland P. III. 35.
That … Robert Dowgles being then … in ane distractioune … did committ ane accedentall slaughter
