Middle English Dictionary Entry
potence n.(2)
Entry Info
| Forms | potence n.(2) Also potance. |
| Etymology | OF potence, potance. |
Definitions (Senses and Subsenses)
1.
(a) A crutch; (b) her. a device having projections in the form of crutch-heads and patterned in a Greek key design.
Associated quotations
a
- a1500 Chartier Treat.Hope (Rwl A.338)80/11 : Yet ware thou take not the staff instede of the potence [vr. potente].
b
- (c1460) Bk.Arms in Anc.5 (Hrl 2169)187 : Pyersse Dewrant beryth asewre bendly potance of sylvyr: de Gwascowyng.