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.
BIRLEY-OATS, n.pl. A species of oats.Abd. 1794 J. Gordon Stat. Acc.1 XIII.:
A species of oats, called birley. This grain, (which is also white), is distinguished from the common white oats, in its appearance, chiefly by its shortness: It does not produce quite so good meal, nor so much fodder.
