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.
Nosebitt, n. (Appar. Nose n. and Bit n.1 or n.2 Meaning uncertain: a morsel (Bit n.2 2) to tickle the nose, a tit-bit, or, alternatively, some fig. use of a word corresp. to 19th c. northeastern Sc. dial. nis-, nizbit a metal nose-band for a horse, have both been suggested.) —1584 Sempill Sat. P. xlv. 1105.
I sall leave blankis for to imbrew thame, That he a nosebitt may beleive thame Whometo my buik salbe directit
