A Dictionary of the Older Scottish Tongue (up to 1700)
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First published 1971 (DOST Vol. IV).
This entry has not been updated since then but may contain minor corrections and revisions.
Neutralitie, Newtralitie, n. [e.m.E. neutralyte (Caxton), newtralytie, neutralitie, -ity, newtral(l)itie, F. neutralité (14th c.), med. L. neutrālitas.] a. Neutrality, not taking sides in a dispute. b. Absence of prejudice or bias, impartiality. c. Indifference, apathy. —a. 1571 Reg. Privy C. II. 88.
Ane uther nowmer of the maist welthy inhabitantis … thinking be thair newtralitie and baklying to be welcum to quhatsumevir party beis victour in the end c1590 Fowler II. 145/10.
The Romans … sent ane ambassadour vnto the Acheans … to induce theme to a newtralitie and indifferencye in these warresb. 1592 Douglas Chart. 307.
Be maist cairfull to obserue newtralitie and indifferency in all ȝour proceidingisc. a1650 Row 63.
Coldnes, slacknes, deadnes, neutralitie in religion and reformation
