Scottish National Dictionary (1700–)
Hide Quotations Hide Etymology
About this entry:
First published 1971 (SND Vol. VIII).
This entry has not been updated since then but may contain minor corrections and revisions.
SAFTEN, v. Also saffen (Kcb. 1901 R. Trotter Gall. Gossip 214). Sc. forms and usage of Eng. soften. Specif.: to thaw (Sc. 1825 Jam.; Bnff. 1866 Gregor D. Bnff. 147; ne.Sc. 1969). Cf. Saft. [sɑfn]