Scottish National Dictionary (1700–)
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First published 1956 (SND Vol. IV).
This entry has not been updated since then but may contain minor corrections and revisions.
FOREWA, n. The front wall of a building. Gen.Sc. See P.L.D. § 78.1.Hdg. 1773 Dmf. Weekly Mag. (28 Dec.):
Part of the fore-wall fell down.Fif. 1839 Wilson's Tales of the Borders V. 95:
Come alang the fore wa' a' the gaet, till ye find the door, an' I'll let ye in.Fif. 1887 G. Gourlay Old Neighbours 127:
Like the rest, it [the “hawding” or holding] was a long narrow row, in which mud or clay had been used for mortar, the barn being to the right and the byre to the left of the goodman's house. It was little else than an Indian wigwam, so low in the forewall that you could lean your elbow on the eaves.
