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.
MATFULL, n. Also matful. A sexually mature herring, with the milt or roe almost fully developed. Gen.Sc., in fishing areas. [′mɑt′fʌl]Sh. 1898 Shetland News (27 Aug.):
Crown brand matfulls 22 to 22½ m.Sc. 1911 “Viking” Fishcuring 18:
“Matful” herrings are 9¼ in. long when cured, but in this case it is sufficient if milt or roe is clearly visible at the neck or throat.
