A Dictionary of the Older Scottish Tongue (up to 1700)
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First published 1990 (DOST Vol. VII).
This entry has not been updated since then but may contain minor corrections and revisions.
(Rarely,) Rair(e)lie, adv. [e.m.E. rarely (1523).] a. In too small or scanty numbers. b. Not often, infrequently. —a. 1641 Kirkcaldy Presb. 193.
The brethren in respect of the foullnes of the wether and the shortnes of the meitting to that effect excuses themsefs (being rairlie met) —b. 1598 James VI Basil. Doron 57/2.
Quhilke fallis out bot uerrie rairelie 1607 Misc. Abbotsf. C. 71.
Thy lyiff … quha all conferris Sall rairlie reid a mair remarcable storie