Scottish National Dictionary (1700–)
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First published 1971 (SND Vol. VIII).
This entry has not been updated since then but may contain minor corrections and revisions.
†SAX, v., n. Also saks (Jak.). [sɑks]
I. v. To cut or slash with a sharp instrument, incise, scarify (Sh. a.1838 Jam. MSS. XII. 203), specif. to perform the operation of cupping, to bleed (Sh. 1908 Jak. (1928)), e.g. as a cure for rheumatism, chilblains, etc. (Ib.).Sh. 1899 J. Spence Folk-Lore 160:
The spot thus marked was saxed or scarified so as to bleed.
II. n. Also in form saxie, saksi. A crack or chap in the skin, esp. on the feet (Sh. 1866 Edm. Gl., 1914 Angus Gl.). Also of the spot where the incision is made in bleeding (Id.). Adj. saksi, chapped, of the skin (Jak.).Sh. 1908 Jak. (1928):
He's got saks in his feet.
