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.
SWIFT, v. 1. To reef or reduce the area of, to partially furl (a sail) (Sh. 1866 Edm. Gl., 1914 Angus Gl., Sh. 1972).Sh. 1822 S. Hibbert Description 512:
Fit da mast and swift da sail.Sh. 1923 T. Manson Lerwick 336:
The sail was then “swifted” (i.e., a knot put on the tack and sheet).
2. To make fast with a rope, etc., to tie more firmly (‡Ork. 1929 Marw.; Cai. 1972), to lash by looping cord or string round, to whip.Cai. 1956:
He splett his fishin wan but he swifted it wi a sneed.
