Scottish National Dictionary (1700–)
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First published 1952 (SND Vol. III).
This entry has not been updated since then but may contain minor corrections and revisions.
†CUN, KUN, v.2 “To taste. It is still used in this sense” (Dmf. 1825 Jam.2).
Hence kuner, a taster (Sc. 1887 Jam.6).
[O.Sc. has cun, to taste (ale) to ensure that it is of the proper quality, 1493, to taste (food, etc.), chiefly fig., a.1540 (D.O.S.T.); O.E. cunnian, to try, test.]