A Dictionary of the Older Scottish Tongue (up to 1700)
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First published 2001 (DOST Vol. IX).
This entry has not been updated since then but may contain minor corrections and revisions.
(Spay,) Spe, n. [North. ME spa (Cursor M.), ON spá.] A prophecy; omen. —a1400 Leg. S. xxvii 1188.
Mak we ws redy tyt Hyme, as a spe afferis, to visidte 1596 Dalr. II 5/8.
This victorie with the Scotis was estemet as a spe or gud tukne of happie succes to follow 1682 Royall Oake 22.
The spea of the heir of Cruixtoun, … A cruce designor, jactant & prædia nomen; præsegit Soboli Crux mea fausta meæ
