Scottish National Dictionary (1700–)
Hide Quotations Hide Etymology
About this entry:
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.
BOAM, n. Also boom. Wooden framework on which yarn is hung. [bom]Ags. 1894 “F. Mackenzie” Humours of Glenbruar v.; Ags.1 1935:
Bob turned to the boams with renewed vigour.Fif.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.
