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.
Kan, n. [Var. of Can n.1] A vessel (not necessarily of metal) for holding liquids. b. In Shetland, as a liquid measure, esp. of oil: see also Can n.1, quots. 1576; (corresp. to ON. kanna, also Norw. kanne, Da. kande, MHG. and mod. Germ. kanne, MDu. kanne (Du. kan), etc., all in similar use). —1512 Treas. Acc. IV. 298.
Thre dussone drinkyne kannis 1596 Elgin Rec. II. 45.
The said Isbell … maid a certane commixtioun of oyle and vther thingis and left the same in a kan 1690 Foulis Acc. Bk. 118.
To the Falkirk carrier for bringing the kan with … honeyb. 1602 Shetland Sheriff Ct. (S.R.S.) 44.
That … the Dutche merchandis … bringis to the contrie and sellis thair wairis with unlawfull mettis, kannis, busmeris and wechtis Ib. 45.
That na Dutche merchand … sell ony barrell meile contening les nor ten leispundis and that the rest of thair kannis [etc.] … be useit according tothe auld accustomit forme of the contrie 1628 Goudie Shetl. Antiq. 178.]
[Anent the … Measuris … of the Dewties of Yetland, … Ane can oyllie is the measure of a Scottis quart … ; 4 canis makis ane bull and 9 bullis makis ane barrell oyllie
