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.
BEGGAR-BULLET, n.comb. A jocular word for a stone, esp. one used as a missile. Cf. Eng. †beggars' bolt, id.Sc. 1740 Caled. Mercury (13 March):
A numerous Mob of Females, armed with Clubs and Beggar-bullets, tumultuously and riotously assembled themselves, attacked the Revenue-men in Front and Flank, and after no mean Resistance, the latter were entirely routed and put to flight.
