Scottish National Dictionary (1700–)
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First published 1974 (SND Vol. IX).
This entry has not been updated since then but may contain minor corrections and revisions.
†STRYTH, n. The work-animals on a farm (Cai. 1904 E.D.D.), plough-horses and -oxen. [strɑeθ]Cai. 1849 J. T. Calder St Mary's Fair 43:
Much they talk of “stryth,” and make complaints — Of late bad fishings and of heavy rents.Cai. 1921 Old-Lore Misc. IX. i. 18:
Before he was allowed to start, the horses and plough had to be blessed and sprinkled with the oatmeal and salt which she carried in her apron, because she said the folk will be “aystin” me. While doing so she muttered this incantation: Preserve man and beast; Stryth, pleoch and gear, go on.
