Middle English Dictionary Entry

galle n.(1)
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Entry Info

Forms galle n.(1) Also gal & ȝalla, ȝalle, ȝealla, ȝella.
Etymology OE; cp. A galla, WS gealla bile, gall.

Definitions (Senses and Subsenses)

1.
(a) The gall bladder of man or animal; (b) the secretion of the liver, bile; chest (kist, hucche) of ~, the gall bladder; (c) as a type of the ultimate in bitterness: bitter as ~, bitterer than ~, etc.; (d) either of two humors; ruwa ~ [?error for reada ~], rough bile, red or yellow bile; swart ~, black bile.
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2.
A bitter taste or drink; -- esp. with reference to Mat. 27.34. [See also erthe ~, hors ~.]
Show 18 Quotations
3.
(a) Rancor, malice, bitterness; evil, wickedness; (b) that which is painful or grievous to the soul; misfortune, sorrow.
Show 23 Quotations
4.
(a) Courage to resist an affront or injury; (b) bresten ~, to break (one's) spirit, lose hope or courage.
Show 6 Quotations
5.
Poison.
Show 4 Quotations

Supplemental Materials (draft)

  • a1450 Eagle Magic in Tul.SE 22 (Add 34111)25/56 : Þe galle of hym wiþ þe inse of Erehowne and wiþ hony and wiþ þe pouder of mirre saueþ a man frome derkenes of eyen and suffreþ noȝt in þe eye of no dissese.
    • Note: Additional quote(s) for 1.(b)

Supplemental Materials (draft)

Note: Med., etc., see further J.Norri, Dictionary of Medical Vocabulary, s.v. gall.

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