Scottish National Dictionary (1700–)
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First published 1941 (SND Vol. II). Includes material from the 1976 supplement.
This entry has not been updated since then but may contain minor corrections and revisions.
Quotation dates: 1809-1812, 1894-1935
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BOAM, n. Also boom. Wooden framework on which yarn is hung. [bom]Ags. 1894 “F. Mackenzie” Humours of Glenbruar v.:
Bob turned to the boams with renewed vigour.Ags.1 1935Fif.3 1935:
The term boam is still in use. It refers to the beam on which yarn is hung in order to be shaken and dried.e.Lth. 1812 Foord Acct. Bk. MS. 112:
To fitting on iron on the booms.
Combs.: (1) boam-kipple, a roof-beam. See Couple; (2) boam-yard, the place where the boams are set up. (1) e.Lth. 1809 Foord Acct. Bk. MS. 68:
To making a boamkipple for the hen house.(2) Ags. 1894 “F. Mackenzie” Humours of Glenbruar v.:
He stepped up to Bob in the boam-yard, with his thumbs in his arm-holes.
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"Boam n.". Dictionary of the Scots Language. 2004. Scottish Language Dictionaries Ltd. Accessed 5 May 2026 <http://www.dsl.ac.uk/entry/snd/boam>
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