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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.

OSSAN, n. A stocking, here used of the long type of stocking which Highland women in the 18th c. put on in pleats from the ankle up to the calf, giving the legs a cylindrical appearance. Gael.Per. 1771 T. Pennant Tour 1769 165:
The Women's dress. In the county of Breadalbane, many wear, when in high dress, a great pleated stocking of an enormous length, called ossan.

[Gael. osan, a stocking, orig. from O.E. hosan, hose, or, less likely, from Hoshen.]

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