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.
Rettlin, n. (? e.m.E. ratling (1481–90), ratlin (1711), ‘thin line or rope such as is used for the ratlines’ (OED), ‘perh. the same word as OF rael-, raalingue (? f. *rade-, *ratelingue), now ralingue small cordage employed to strengthen the edge of a sail’ (OED).) —1671 Reg. Panmure I xliv.
For a bondle of Vennus rettlins, 11 s., For seaventine hankes of Lyons, 7 s.
