Sc. Obs. Also 6 coif, coff(e. [Related to COFF v. to buy; but the mode of formation is uncertain, as is also the relation of senses 1 and 2; they may be distinct derivatives. Cf. Du. koop, MHG. kouf ‘dealing, bargain, trade’; also OHG. choufo ‘dealer, merchant.’]
1. A bargain.
1471. Act. Audit., 12 (Jam.). The cofe made betuix her & vmquhile Johne of Brakenerig.
1480. Act. Dom. Conc., 70 (Jam.). Be resone of cofe & change made betuix the said Margret and Marioun her dochtir.
2. A hawker or pedlar.
a. 1555. Lyndesay, Peder Coffeis, 10. Ane scroppit cofe … to by hennis reid-wod he rynnis. Ibid., 17. Ane swyngeor coife amangis the wyvis. Ibid., 33. Knaifatic coff misknawis him sell Quhen he gettis in a furrit goun.
15[?]. Aberd. Reg. (Jam.). Mispersoning the merchandis in calling of thaim coffeis.
3. = COVE, q.v.
