Scottish National Dictionary (1700–)
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First published 1960 (SND Vol. V).
This entry has not been updated since then but may contain minor corrections and revisions.
†HALFMESS, adj. ? Found only in comb. halfmess plate, a small plate, prob. corresp. to the modern dessert plate.Sc. 1734 J. Spotiswood Hope's Practicks 539:
A Dozen of Pewter Plates, if they be of one Mould; otherwise, only the three following, viz. A great Charger Plate, A Broth Plate, An Halfmess Plate.
