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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.

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.

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