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.
Pithles, a. [e.m.E. pithlesse (1554).] Pithless, in various applications.a. That lacks strength or vigour. b. Without force or terseness of expression or style. c. Having no force or efficacy. d. Not potent sexually.a. c1590 J. Stewart 181/13.
Heirfoir ȝour pithles person to repois Tak my bak chalmerb. 1563 Ferg. Answer 2 b.
Althogh this pithles epistle haue lytle or no strength to deceauve any that haue … teasted of the treuth [etc.] c1590 J. Stewart 3.
Not onlie in electing of ane so small and fectles subiect … bot maist of all in pithles and vnplesand framyng of the samc. 1562-3 Winȝet I. 58/26.
Quhen all his blunt boultis and pithles artelȝerie ar schot, to infirm and adnull his awin cause rather than to strenthe the samin —a1568 Scott i. 67.
Thai purchest pithles pardonis fra the paipd. a1570-86 Balnavis Maitl. F. cxxix. 36.
At that semblance is no plesance Quhone pithles is thi pen
