Dictionaries of the Scots Language
Dictionars o the Scots Leid

Scottish National Dictionary (1700–)

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About this entry:
First published 1934 (SND Vol. I). Includes material from the 1976 supplement.
This entry has not been updated since then but may contain minor corrections and revisions.

BACKS, n.¹ Also bax. The refuse of flax, wool, etc.Ags. 1773 Arbroath T.C. Mins. MS. (2 Sept.): 
Lint Bax & Hemp Bax.Ayr. 1823 C. K. Sharpe Ballad Book 25:
Tell her I will gee her Four punds, and spin a' the Backs mysel'.