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.
WRITHE, v., tr. Sc. usage: to twist about, to turn or wrench round, to wring (something). Obs. in Eng. Pa.p. writhed; †writhen. Liter.Sc. 1826 Scott Woodstock xv.:
His features seem writhen as by a palsy stroke.Edb. 1864 W. Fergusson Songs 35:
Wi' nane his glazen e'en to close, Or his sair writhen limbs compose.Inv. 1865 J. Horne Poems 52:
Amon' the heath, whaur aft I've Writhed the muircock's neck.
