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.
TILT, n.2 Ork. form and usage of Eng. tilth (See T, letter, 9.). [tɪlt]
1. As in Eng., the act of cultivation, ploughing, sowing, harrowing. Used fig. in phr. i' geud tilt, in good condition.Ork. 1880 Dennison Sketch-Bk. 53:
Backaskeel's boat an' a' her graith wus i' geud tilt.Ork. 1920 J. Firth Reminisc. 107:
When the “tilt” was completed, the spring work was practically done.
2. By extension: a vexatious or troublesome job, a hard struggle (Ork. 1972).Ork. 1929 Marw.:
What a tilt tae hae tae wash a' that claes! Aye, she's haen a gey tilt wi' that bairn.
