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.
RUDISTAG, n. A mat of woven rushes placed at the bottom of the leepie or indoor refuse heap in an early 19th-c. Sh. cottage in order to facilitate the periodic removal of the accumulated refuse (Sh. 1961). See also Leepie.
[Cf. Norw. dial rudda, rodda, a woven or plaited basket for carrying hay. The second element is obscure and there is prob. confusion with Sh. Norn rødastabb, a block or lump of wood, etc.]
