Scottish National Dictionary (1700–)
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About this entry:
First published 1971 (SND Vol. VIII).
This entry has not been updated since then but may contain minor corrections and revisions.
Quotation dates: 1783, 1841
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SAVING, n. Sc. form of Eng. savin, the evergreen shrub, which has abortifacient properties. Gen. in comb. savingtree (Gall. 1824 MacTaggart Gallov. Encycl. 418).Sc. 1783 Session Papers, Petition J. MacDowal (16 July) 10:
She asked the deponent if she thought the saving-tree would be of any use to her in creating an abortion.Kcb. 1841 Kelton Session Rec. MS. (29 Aug.):
John Pattie applied to him to procure a sprig of Savingtree.
