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.
¶KILES, n.pl. See quot. The usage corresponds to Kail, 6. (12), q.v.; for the form see P.L.D. § 132.Mry. 1836 J. Grant Penny Wedding 29:
The kiles was the name given to a race which was run in the following manner: when the company arrived within about two hundred yards of the house . . . a number of young men started to try who would be the first to reach it, as the winner was entitled to a kiss of the newly-married damsel.
