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.
‡ERT, v.
1. To make as if to strike; also fig. to argue (with); to strive after; to try to obtain (Sh. 1914 Angus Gl.; ‡Sh.10 1950).Sh. 1908 Jak. (1928):
De kye is ertin wi' ane anidder, the cows are threatening to butt each other.
2. With up: (1) to incite, irritate (Cld. 1825 Jam.2); (2) to strive onward and upward (Sh. 1908 Jak. (1928)).
[For Sh. usages cf. O.N. erta, to taunt, tease, but there has been some confusion with Airt, v., q.v.]
