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.
Quotation dates: 1571, 1641
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Hum, n. [ME. (1469) and e.m.E. (1611), from the inarticulate vocal sound or interjection.] A subdued expression of hesitation or dissent. — 1571 Sempill Sat. P. xxviii. 140.
His putting doun I publictly deny, Ȝit botis [= buts] and hummis declairis ȝow quhat I mene 1641 Baillie I. 292.
To this part of the speech was no hum, no applause as to the rest
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