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.
BOULT, n.2 “A border of grass between two crofts” (Cai. 1914 T.S.D.C. I.). Cf. bolt, a narrow, walled passage between houses (Yks. 1898 E.D.D.). [bult]
[Perhaps from a fig. meaning of boult (s.v. Bout, v.1), to sift, separate, hence that which separates two crofts. In some Gael. areas in Scot. and in Ir. o + l becomes ou + l — e.g. hould, bould, could in e.Rs. and Arg.]
