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.
DISABUSE, v. and n. ne.Sc. usages. Also disabeeze. [dɪsə′bjuz + -′biz]
1. v. To misuse, damage; to mar, spoil (Sc. 1779 J. Beattie Scoticisms; Abd. 1825 Jam.2, disabeeze; Abd.9 1940).Abd.27 1948:
The big hoose was aa disabust fan the sodgers war in't.
2. n. Damage, bad usage; “stir, disturbance” (Abd. 1825 Jam.2). Sometimes also disabusance (Abd.27 1949).Abd.27 1948:
The place got an affa disabuse wi coorse tenants.
