Middle English Dictionary Entry
poinẹ̄ n.(2)
Entry Info
| Forms | poinẹ̄ n.(2) Also punai. |
| Etymology | AF poiné, puinnïe; cp. CF poigniee. |
Definitions (Senses and Subsenses)
1.
(a) A small group of men; an armed band; (b) a handful.
Associated quotations
a
- c1330(?a1300) Arth.& M.(Auch)3233 : Þe kinges..seyd gret schame hem was bifalle Þat Arthour wiþ a litel punay Hadde ydriuen hem oway.
- c1330(?a1300) Arth.& M.(Auch)5896 : Michel wonder had Leodegan þat swiche a litel poine of man So fele in so litel þrawe So manliche had yslawe.
b
- c1450 *Bk.Marchalsi (Hrl 6398)38a : Take..a poine of reuwe, and a poyne of tormentille.