Middle English Dictionary Entry
wirling(e n.
Entry Info
| Forms | wirling(e n. |
| Etymology | Origin unknown; cp. MScot. wirling. |
Definitions (Senses and Subsenses)
1.
A deformed creature, monster;—used as a term of abuse.
Associated quotations
- c1390 NHom.Narrat.(Vrn)16.270/867 : Crist, his sone, God wolde not spare To beo fondet…And siþen slen…as wyrling.
- a1450-a1500(1436) Libel EP (Warner)716 : God forebede that a wylde Yrishe wyrlynge Shulde be chosene for to be there kynge.
- c1450(?a1400) Wars Alex.(Ashm 44)1706 : His person him shewid…A wirling, a wayryngle, a wawil-eȝid shrewe.
- c1450(?a1400) Wars Alex.(Ashm 44)1733 : Þou has samed…a selly nounbre Of wrichis & wirlingis.