Scottish National Dictionary (1700–)
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First published 1941 (SND Vol. II).
This entry has not been updated since then but may contain minor corrections and revisions.
BLEA, BLAE, BLEHH, v. and n. [blæ:, blɪə, ble:]
1. v. Given in N.E.D. as obs. except dial.
(1) “To bleat, as a lamb or kid” (Rxb. 1923 Watson W.-B.).s.Sc. 1801 J. Leyden Compl. Scot., Gl. 313:
Blait, to cry like a sheep. The Scottish peasantry likewise use blea, and blair [see Blare, n. and v.].Rxb.(D) 1925 E. C. Smith Mang Howes an Knowes 1:
The road was thrang wui droves o nowt — aa keinds, untellin . . . rowtin an mehhin an blehhin.
(2) “Of a child: To lament or cry piteously” (Rxb. 1923 Watson W.-B.).Rxb. 1879 Jam.5:
In regard to children; generally, to blae and greet.
2. n. “A loud bleat” (Rxb. 1879 Jam.5); a cry. n.–w.Rxb. 1923 Watson W.-B.:
Blea. Also blae (Rxb.). A loud bleat of a lamb or kid; the cry of a child.
