Scottish National Dictionary (1700–)
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First published 1968 (SND Vol. VII).
This entry has not been updated since then but may contain minor corrections and revisions.
POY, v. To work in an anxious intent way, to expend all one's energy and attention on the job in hand, to concentrate (Lnk. 1825 Jam.). With upon: “to use means of persuasion, so as rather unduly to influence another” (Per. 1825 Jam.), to bring one's influence to bear upon another's doings or problems.
[Orig. obscure. The two meanings may be from different sources. For the second, poss. an aphetic form from O.Fr. apoier, to lean on, lend support to, press on, assail. Cf. Eng. dial. poy, a kind of verandah with a rail to lean on, and poy a punt-pole, to punt, which may be of the same orig.]
