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.
CALMY, Caulmy, adj. “Of an argillaceous nature” (Sc. 1886 J. Barrowman Sc. Mining Terms 15, calmy, caulmy). [′kɑ:mɪ̢, ′k:m]Rnf. 1920 Memoirs Geol. Survey Scot. 18:
2 ft. of flaggy Productus limestone lies between 1½ ft. of dirty coal below, and 6 in. of dark calmy limestone of Pendleside type above.
Comb.: calmy-stone, “a soft stone found in ditches and used by children at school for writing on slates” (Cai. 1911 D.D. in John o' Groat Jnl. (17 Feb.); Fif.3 1916). See also calmstane s.v. Cam, n.1
[From O.Sc. calm, limestone, c.1450 (D.O.S.T.). Of obscure origin.]
