A Dictionary of the Older Scottish Tongue (up to 1700)
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First published 2002 (DOST Vol. XI).
This entry has not been updated since then but may contain minor corrections and revisions.
Under-cause, n. [18th c. Eng. under-cause (1768-74); Caus(e n.] A subordinate or secondary cause. —1645 Rutherford Tryal Faith (1845) 385.
In regard of irresistible efficacy and success, under-causes … are but idol-causes