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.
Quotation dates: 1822
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HOWIE, n. ? Jam.2 suggests this is an error for sowie, dim. of sow, a kind of shelter for military sappers.Slk. 1822 Hogg Perils of Man III. 3:
Bring gavelocks and ern mells, pinching-bars, and howies, and break open every gate, bar, and door in this castle.