glossary of archaic Scots terms R

Scotland - a glossary of archaic terms, as well as a number of Modern Scots words and phrases, useful for genealogical research. Legal terms, words linked to property and possessions, found in wills and testaments.

A B C D E F G H I J K L M N O P Q R S T U V W X Y Z

RACKEN, reckon.

RAISING LETTERS, taking out a legal summons.

RANKING, PROCESS OF, process by which creditors are arranged in order of preference.

RASE (base and opprobrious speeches), rash.

RATSCHE (of a gun), lock.

RAXES, iron instrument consisting of various links, on which the spit is turned at the fire ; or per�haps tongs, rax meaning to stretch.

REFT, bereft.

REGALITY, a territorial jurisdiction conferred by the crown, the holder being termed lord of the regality, with power to hold courts.

REGENT, master of a school or college.

REMANENT, remaining.

RENUNCIATION, (1) by an heir charged to enter on possession ; (2) of redeemable rights when re�deemed ; (3) of a lease. Also the deed by which these are carried out.

REPONIT, reponed, replaced.

RESIGNATION, the act whereby a vassal returns the fen into the hands of the superior, either to remain with the latter, or for the purpose of receiving it again by a new grant. The deed recording the act.

RESTING, remaining due, owing.

RETOUR, an extract from chancery of the service of an heir to his progenitor.

RETOUR OF INQUEST, the report of the jury sum�moned to find if an heir is duly entitled.

REUSTRIE, revestry, back vestry of a church.

REX DOLLAR, a silver coin (German) of varying value from 2s. 6d. to 4s. 6d.

RONDLE, A. This word has various meanings, e.g., a tower, round shield, round table, and song (rondel).

ROTTONFALL. (Possibly) a rat-trap (rotton-faw).

ROUNDALL, rowndall ; see Rondle.

ROUND SHEETS, sheets put round the mattress to bind it.

ROUNDER BED PLAIDS, woollen coverlets.

ROUP, sale by auction.

TO INDEX

This glossary is under constant revision. We welcome all contributions of archaic terms linked to Scotland, that may be helpful in genealogical research. Please complete the SUGGESTIONS FORM with your ideas, additions and corrections. Thanks!

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