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Scottish National Dictionary (1700–)

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About this entry:
First published 1952 (SND Vol. III).
This entry has not been updated since then but may contain minor corrections and revisions.

ESS, n.3 Also †esse. A hook shaped like the letter S (Cai. 1900 E.D.D.; Ork.5, Cai.7, Bnff.2, Abd.9, Per. (per Fif.17), Arg.3, Rxb.4 1944).Ayr. 1811 A. Boswell Poet. Works (1871) 102:
If aught did esse and crochet strain, 'Twas hand unhallow'd drew the rein.

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