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.
MOOT, v., n.1 Also mute. Sc. usages. [mut]
I. v., tr. 1. With direct obj. or n. clause: to say, to utter, to mention, to divulge, esp. to hint or insinuate in an underhand way (Sc. 1808 Jam., mute; Sh., Abd., Ags., Kcb. 1963).Ags. 1847 Montrose Standard (8 Oct.) 2:
Oh Sawnie has tell'd what should neer been mootit.Hdg. 1848 [A. Somerville] Autobiog. Working Man 201:
But mind ye, never moot it; if ye hope to be good sodgers, and respected by vour comrades, never tell on another comrade.Mry. 1849 A. Blackhall Lays 93:
The rest I scarce dare moot in hell.Abd. 1875 G. Macdonald Malcolm xix.:
The things 'at was mutit o' 's brither.Ayr. 1897 H. Ochiltree Out of her Shroud xi.:
'Twas Bailie Duff wha pledged us on soul and conscience ne'er to moot a word o't.Cai. 1903 E.D.D.:
To moot a thing aboot.
2. To mutter in a discontented manner, to grumble (Sc. 1808 Jam.).
II. n. A whisper, a hint (Fif. 1825 Jam., mute; Sh., Abd. 1963).Cai.9 1939:
I noor heerd a moot o'd.
