Scottish National Dictionary (1700–)
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First published 1934 (SND Vol. I).
This entry has not been updated since then but may contain minor corrections and revisions.
Quotation dates: 1916-1921
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AYEST, AYST, v. Desire eagerly, envy. See Aest. [e:st]Cai.(D) 1916 J. Mowat Caithness Proverbs 6:
"'Em 'at 'ill ayest 'e silk goon will get 'e sleeve o't." [People with an ambition will get at least part of their aim.]Cai. 1921 J. Mowat in Old-Lore Misc., Ork. Sh., etc. IX. i. 18–19:
Before he was allowed to start, the horses and plough had to be blessed and sprinkled with the oatmeal and salt which she carried in her apron, because she said the folk will be "aystin" me. (Caithness phrase meaning "they would wish to take away her luck.")
