Middle English Dictionary Entry
blēche adj.
Entry Info
| Forms | blēche adj. Also bliech. |
| Etymology | OE blǣce (cp. blāc). |
Definitions (Senses and Subsenses)
1.
Pale, pallid; of fair complexion.
Associated quotations
- (1340) Ayenb.(Arun 57)53/23 : Þou sselt ueste al huet þou art bleche [Vices & V.(2): pale].
- c1390 Maidstone PPs.(Vrn)109 : Þenk hou cristis..bodi bleche [rime: teche] Hou it was bete wiþ scourges.
- (a1393) Gower CA (Frf 3)5.2477 : In ech of hem he fint somwhat That pleseth him..Som on, for sche is pale and bleche [rime: speche].
- a1450(a1400) Medit.Pass.(2) (Add 11307)641 : His face wex bliech, his lippes bloo.
Supplemental Materials (draft)
- ?c1400(1379) Daniel *Treat.Uroscopy (Roy 17.D.1)f.72rb (2.10) : Þe face is oþerwhile whan & bleche.
Note: Need date.