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.
Semat, n. [Cf. e.m.E. semit (1562-3) ‘an undershirt or vest’, later only Sc., and only in this sense. Of obscure origin, ? perhaps ME samyt (14th c.), OF samit (c1160 in Larousse), med. L. samitum a rich silk fabric, alt. f. examitum, med. Gk. examiton ‘six-threaded’.] A tunic. —1456 Hay I 64/5.
Julius Cesar brocht with him nouthir wapyn … na othir defence bot in his semat
