Scottish National Dictionary (1700–)
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First published 1965 (SND Vol. VI). Includes material from the 1976 supplement.
This entry has not been updated since then but may contain minor corrections and revisions.
MARSHUM, n. The white scaly balls composed of the egg-cases of the lump-fish, found lying on the seashore (Sh. 1914 Angus Gl.). Also in form marsom (Sh. 1908 Jak. (1928)).
[Ad. L. Ger. meerschaum, 'sea scum', of various sea creatures and their products, alcyonium, holothuria, cuttlebone and the substances sepiolite and lithomarge.]
