Dictionaries of the Scots Language
Dictionars o the Scots Leid

Scottish National Dictionary (1700–)

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First published 1971 (SND Vol. VIII).
This entry has not been updated since then but may contain minor corrections and revisions.

SPALTER, n., v. Also spalther (Uls.). Cf. Spelder. [′spɑltər]

I. n. A sprawl, a tumble.Dmf. 1863 R. Quinn Heather Lintie 129:
Sud wise reflection gar ye falter, . . . Sae as tae indicate a spalter.

II. v. To walk awkwardly, stumble; splash or spatter in going through water, flounder (Uls. 1953 Traynor; Wgt. 1971).Uls. 1929 M. Mulcaghey Ballymulcaghey 234:
The horse left Joe spaltherin' through the shough.