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Scottish National Dictionary (1700–)

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About this entry:
First published 1941 (SND Vol. II).
This entry has not been updated since then but may contain minor corrections and revisions.

CANT, n.3 “A trick, a bad habit; an auld cant, an ancient, traditionary custom” (Abd. 1825 Jam.2). Known to Abd.2, Abd.9 1938.Abd. 1813 D. Anderson Poems 81:
While Superstition, holes peept thro', Made by nae mortal's han's' Gin they the authors o't could view Experiencing plans O' auld cants that night.

[Phs. connected with Cant, v.1; cf. Cantrip.]

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