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A Dictionary of the Older Scottish Tongue (up to 1700)

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About this entry:
First published 1990 (DOST Vol. VII).
This entry has not been updated since then but may contain minor corrections and revisions.

Ransak, v. [ME (c1250) and e.m.E. ransak(e, raunsake (c1440), ransack, ON rannsaka to search a house for stolen goods, f. rann a house and saka ablaut-var. of sǽkja to seek. Cf. Runsik v.] To examine (thoughts) carefully; search thoroughly, scrutinise. —c1590 Fowler I 79/55.
Ransakking all thair pansiwe thoughts long ludged in thair mynde

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