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.
(Savourles,) Savirles, adj. Also: sawr(e)les, sairles. [ME and e.m.E. sauourles (Trevisa), savourlesse (1627); Savo(u)r n.] fig. Insipid, jejune, lacking in interest, dull. —c1552 Lynd. Mon. 564.
Moyses … wrait the law … In thare awin vulgare language of Hebrew That all the bairnis of Israell … Mycht knaw the law … Had he done wryt in Latyne … It had to thame bene bot ane sawrles [v.r. sauirles] jest 1560 Rolland Seven S. 4808.
Thocht ȝe think pryde of paramouris … set on syde sic sawreles game 1573 Davidson Sat. P. xlii 537.
Sic preichouris … Quhen thay haue run ouir with ane reill Thair sairles sermone
