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Scottish National Dictionary (1700–)

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About this entry:
First published 1974 (SND Vol. IX).
This entry has not been updated since then but may contain minor corrections and revisions.

SURE, v. To assure, tell (one) for certain (ne.Sc. 1971). Also in Eng. dial. Rare exc. with 1st pers. sing.Abd. 1768 A. Ross Helenore (S.T.S.) 38:
Nae little wealth, I 'sure you, there we saw.Fif. 1873 J. Wood Ceres Races 16:
Ise sure ye sir, in whatna clime Would folk no dance to cheer the time.Ags. 1890 Arbroath Guide (5 July) 3:
Tea on a clout! I 'sure ye!

[O.Sc. I sure, id., c.1550. Prob. an aphetic form of assure rather than a survival of Mid.Eng. sure, id. Cf. Soum, v.2]

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