A Dictionary of the Older Scottish Tongue (up to 1700)
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First published 2000 (DOST Vol. VIII).
This entry has not been updated since then but may contain minor corrections and revisions.
(Savagenes,) Sevegnes, n. [ME and e.m.E. savagenes (14th c.), savedgenes (1600); Savage adj.] The state or condition of being savage, barbarous or uncivilised. —1604 Reg. Privy C. VI 594.
Ane … desyer to have removit frome amange his subjectis of the cuntrey of Scotland all sic cuustomis, faschiouns and behaviouris as did in ony wayis smell of barbaritie and sevegnes, and to have reducit thair haill cariage and behaviour to that comeliness and decencie that is requirit in a civill and weill governit pepill
