Scottish National Dictionary (1700–)
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First published 1976 (SND Vol. X).
This entry has not been updated since then but may contain minor corrections and revisions.
BACK HAND, n. comb. In bowls, or curling: a leftwards direction (see quots. and Hand, n., 2.). Also attrib. or adj. Cf. Forehand, adj., 2.Sc. 1864 W. W. Mitchell Bowl-Playing 32:
The back, or cross hand, is played across the body to the left of the jack, with its inside, or bias, towards it.
2. Add:Ayr. 1886 J. Meikle The Lintie 100:
With great care Tay lor sent a way his bowl along the back hand.
