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.
Quotation dates: 1700, 1772-1819
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PURPIE, n.2 Also purpy. Given by N.E.D. as purslane, Portulaca, with 16th-c. references (see note), but purslane is very rare in Scot. and the comb. water-purpie is applied to the brooklime, Veronica beccabunga, which is very common and was much used as a salad and for medicinal purposes (Sc. 1808 Jam.).Sc. 1700 Foulis Acct. Bk. (S.H.S.) 277:
For 4 drap of purpie, for 4 drap of clarie . . . 3s. 0d.Sc. 1772 Scots Mag. (May 1934) 146:
O, wha'll buy my dainty well-carses, Water-purpy and saleds a fouth.Sc. 1819 Scott Bride of Lamm. xviii.:
Cresses or water-purpie, and a bit ait-cake, can serve the Master for breakfast.
