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A Dictionary of the Older Scottish Tongue (up to 1700)

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First published 1971 (DOST Vol. IV).
This entry has not been updated since then but may contain minor corrections and revisions.

May-, Maii-play, n. Also: ma(i)j- and -plai. Chiefly in plur.

The entertainments, sports and jollifications which took place on May-day or in early May (? often the first Sunday in May).(a) 1579 Bk. Univ. Kirk II. 440.
What aught to be done to sick persons that, after admonition, will passe to May playis? 1583 Dalkeith Presb. in Mill Mediæv. Plays 169.
To anser … concerning the prophanatione of the sabboth day with Robert Hude & litill Jhone & May playis [at Lasswade] 1588 Edinb. B. Rec. IV. 520.
Diksoun, toun swescheour, to be wairdet … for passing … to the May plays in Kirklistoun 1610 Irvine Mun. II. 250.
Quhen the younkeiris of the toun went out to thair May play(b) 1565 Treas. Acc. XI. 359.
The furnetour of the Quene's grace for the Maii plais 1583 Stirling Presb. in Mill Mediæv. Plays 289.
On Sonday last thair was ane drum strwkin in the brugh … & Maij playis vsit 1588 Haddington Presb. in Ib. 253.
Maj plaijs 1590 Dalkeith Presb. in Ib. 170.
Maij plays