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.
BY-CHAP, n. comb. “An illegitimate male child” (Uls. 1880 W. H. Patterson Gl. Ant. and Dwn.; Uls.2 1929).
[Cf. Eng. by-blow, an illegitimate child.]