A Dictionary of the Older Scottish Tongue (up to 1700)
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First published 1983 (DOST Vol. V).
This entry has not been updated since then but may contain minor corrections and revisions.
Palmall, Palle-maille, n. [16th c. F. pallemaille, palmaille, palmail, etc., e.m.E. palle-maille (1598), later pelmel (1647), pall-mall (1650). Appar. only in these two instances in Sc. use, both in texts intended primarily for English readers; (only in the 1603 ed. of Basil. Doron and not in the 1599 ed. or the MS.).] The game of pall-mall. —1568 Book of Articles in Cal. Sc. P. II. 558.
[Mary's playing at Seton] one day richt oppinlie at the feildis with the palmall and goif 1598 James VI Basil. Doron (1603) 189/18.
Playing at the caitche or tennise, archery, palle maille & suche like other faire & pleasant field games
