Scottish National Dictionary (1700–)
Hide Quotations Hide Etymology
About this entry:
First published 1960 (SND Vol. V).
This entry has not been updated since then but may contain minor corrections and revisions.
†KEMPIT, n. Also kembit. The pith of hemp, or of a wild carrot, parsnip, etc., dried and used as a small candle (Ayr. 1808 Jam.; Ags. a.1838 Jam. MSS. XI. 94). See also Keppock.Sc. 1813 The Scotchman 115:
It maun be a misleart wicht that lippens a his weight upo a kempit!
