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.
Personat, v. [e.m.E. personate play the part of (1598), pretend to be (another) (1613), cause to personate (1621), mimic (1646), late L. personare.] To cast someone (for a scene); to pretend (the existence of something); to impersonate (another). —1608 Craven Argyll Diocese 58.
Albeit the master of the play may give pairts at his pleasure … yet before ever the actors be personat rightly for this scene [etc.] —1681 R. McWard Poor Man's Cup Cold Water 37.
They can personat a division among themselves —1682 Lauder Notices Affairs I. 384.
They hyre and busk up a fellow to personat the sick disponer
