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.
Peterish, a. [Nonce-formation, f. e.m.E. peter (1594), Peter attrib., also = saltpetre, and -ish.] Containing saltpetre. —1690 Acts IX. App. 42/1.
Considering that there is aboundance of peterish earth and other materialls for making of gunpowder within the kingdome Ib. 42/2.
Where peterish earth shall be found … to dispose therof for the convenience of the gunpowder manufactories