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.
Underling, n. (adj.). Also: undyrlynge, wndyrlyng. [ME and e.m.E. underling (c1175), undirlyng (c1400); Under adv.] a. One who is subject or subordinate; an agent or assistant (to another). b. attrib. or as adj. Subordinate; unimportant, of little worth or significance.a. c1420 Wynt. vii 2380.
How suld he be cald a kyng That wes, he sayd, [ane] wndyrlyng [C. vndyrlynge, W. vnderling]? 1460 Hay Alex. 1952.
May nane repreif me quhan I de ane king Bot gret lak is to leve [sc. live] ane vnderling 1693 Apol. Clergy Scotl. 102.
Mr. Cant, whom he names underling to Mr. Hamiltonb. 1664 Pitcairn Spiritual Sacrifice 284.
Many carnall men do say, such a son is for this calling and employment, and such for another, but this naughty underling child is fit for nothing, but to be a minister 1669 Jus Populi 432.
And as for their underling-curats, the scumme of mankinde, who seeth not their nakednesse? 1693 Apol. Clergy Scotl. 104.
The underling pedlars amongst the Presbyterians may write what they please
