Scottish National Dictionary (1700–)
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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.
BUSH, v. [bʌʃ]
1. Often used with up. “To move nimbly about, work heartily; also, to make clean and tidy, brighten up; in the latter sense, bush up is generally used” (w.Sc. 1887 Jam.6; Kcb.9 1937). Slg. 1898 E.D.D.; Slg.3 1937:
Bush about, lassie; bush up, noo.
2. To gush, spout. Dmf. 1836 A. Cunningham Lord Roldan III. ii.:
My nose bushed out an' bled.
