Middle English Dictionary Entry
pli(e n.
Entry Info
| Forms | pli(e n. |
| Etymology | AF pli. |
Definitions (Senses and Subsenses)
Note: Cp. pleit n.
1.
Anat. A 'folding' of the brain; a region of the brain so understood.
Associated quotations
- ?c1400(1379) Daniel *Treat.Uroscopy (Roy 17.D.1)f.56vb (2.7) : It [the brain] is distincte, i. diuisede, in 3 plies, i. in 3 foldynges or in 3 kawates. Which 3 plyes ar callede 3 celles by cause of 3 diuerse maner of operacioun, i. of wirking, þat he haþ.
Supplemental Materials (draft)
Note: New entry. Editor's gloss: 'one of three regions of the brain, understood as foldings or convolutions'.
Supplemental Materials (draft)
Note: For the complex history of this French word in English, see OED s.v. plait, n.; pleat, n.; plet, n.1; plat, n.6; plight, n.3; as well as the more directly relevant ply n. and ploy n.1. Also see AND s.v. pli, pleit (etc.) n.