A Dictionary of the Older Scottish Tongue (up to 1700)
Hide Quotations Hide Etymology
About this entry:
First published 2002 (DOST Vol. XI).
This entry has not been updated since then but may contain minor corrections and revisions.
Underhand, Wnderhand, adv. (adj.). [ME and e.m.E. under hande (a1200), OE under hand; Hand n.]
1. adv. Secretly, covertly.1599 Cal. Sc. P. XIII 547.
[Master James Sempill will be] na onfreind to ȝow vnderhand c1646 Craufurd Edinb. Univ. 49.
There war some particularis that gave great influence underhand to strengthen the envy of his cause 1635 Wodrow in Hay Geneal. 87.
Most part procured by himselfe, and by such as under hand deall for him 1667 Conv. Burghs III 593.
The said Dauid Weimes doeth connive and vnderhand agree with the saids wyvers a1686 Turner Mem. 91.
The … Marquesse of Montrose … was underhand supported … by the great Queene Christina 1695 Duns Glovers 4.
If aney thing be found to be doon wnder hand in defraud of this act
b. At wnderhand, = at under Under adv. 2 (1).a1578 Pitsc. I 3/8.
Sum ar at wnderhand [Bell. Boece (1821) I Excusation Prentar 8, at vndir] and sum maid vp of nocht
2. adj. Secret, covert.1652 Johnston Diary II 162.
Upon underhand assurance that they should not medle with the Inglishes
