Scottish National Dictionary (1700–)
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First published 1965 (SND Vol. VI).
This entry has not been updated since then but may contain minor corrections and revisions.
LUFF, v. Sc. usage of Eng. luff, to sail near the wind, in phr. to luff and draw, to let well alone, steer clear of trouble (Sh. 1866 Edm. Gl.). Nonce pa.t. loof.Dmb. 1827 W. Taylor Poems 21:
At Catchie's toll he did arrive Into that harm didna steer, But loof and stood for Lenny dear.
