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Scottish National Dictionary (1700–)

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About this entry:
First published 1934 (SND Vol. I).
This entry has not been updated since then but may contain minor corrections and revisions.

†BELAY, v. To overcome.Ags. 1790 D. Morison Poems 122:
The lass that's o'er easy be-laid, Shou'd ne'er be the partner for me.

[Original meaning to lay (a thing) about with other objects, hence, to beset, to coil a rope, †to lay about one (N.E.D.). E.D.D. gives belay, to fall on with blows, for e.Pem. Used in O.Sc. meaning to coil a rope or set something up, e.g. a ladder (D.O.S.T.).]

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