A Dictionary of the Older Scottish Tongue (up to 1700)
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First published 1963 (DOST Vol. III).
This entry has not been updated since then but may contain minor corrections and revisions.
How, Howe, v.1 [Var. of Holl v.] tr. To dig up or out. Also with up. —1632 Cullen B. Ct. 21 Dec.
Ilk swyn [which] beis found ... wpone quhyt land or reid land or howand erd to be poyndit1645 South Leith Rec. I. 58.
To imploy men to howe whinnes 1663 Melrose Reg. Rec. II. 51.
[The] miller … howes up broome upon the saids lands Ib.
To … cease from howeing of any broome 1666 Ib. 150.
Who daily … pull up and how his greenwood 1680 Foulis Acc. Bk. 45.
To Campbel and his neighbour … for howing whins 1691 Ib. 136.