Scottish National Dictionary (1700–)
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About this entry:
First published 1965 (SND Vol. VI).
This entry has not been updated since then but may contain minor corrections and revisions.
Quotation dates: 1873-1912
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MATTLE, v.1 Also with at (Jam.). To nibble, “to eat with dainty sharp bites as does a young animal” (Rxb. 1825 Jam.).Sc.(E) 1873 D. M. Ogilvy Willie Wabster 11:
And aften had he sellt him cattle — Stirks, stots, and quey, and calves that mattle.Wgt. 1912 A.O.W.B. Fables frae French 46:
That mice sud mattle's nae affair ava.
