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.
ROSS, v. Also ros. [rɔs]
1. To run a fishing line down to the sea bottom and then pull it up a few fathoms to keep it clear of the bottom (Sh. 1908 Jak. (1928), Sh. 1968).
2. To move a fishing line up and down, or draw it backwards and forwards over the kabe, in order to attract the fish (Sh. 1908 Jak. (1928), 1914 Angus Gl.).
[Orig. uncertain. Cf. Faer. ræsa, = 1., cogn. with O.N. rás, Eng. race, a run.]
