Middle English Dictionary Entry
auk-ward adv.
Entry Info
| Forms | auk-ward adv. Also ayke-. |
| Etymology | From auk . |
Definitions (Senses and Subsenses)
1.
(a) Backhandedly; (b) of the ringing of bells: in reverse order.
Associated quotations
a
- c1440(?a1400) Morte Arth.(1) (Thrn)2247 : The emperour thane egerly at Arthure he strykez, Awkwarde on þe umbrere, and egerly hym hittez.
- c1440(?a1400) Morte Arth.(1) (Thrn)2564 : Þe gome..And gyrdis at sir Gawayne..And awkewarde egerly sore he hym smyttes.
- c1540(?a1400) Destr.Troy (Htrn 388)7507 : Ector in angur aykeward he stroke.
b
- (1380) RParl.3.96b : A quele heure que le cloches sur le Pount fuissent sonez aukeward..que touz les Comunes de la dite Citee leverent touz ensemble.