Sc. Obs. [Derivation of second element uncertain; it is not known as an independent word.] App. = ‘calf,’ used in endearment or ridicule. (The meaning cow-herd suggested by Jamieson does not appear in the quots.)
1500–20. Dunbar, ‘In secreit place,’ 58. Quod scho, ‘Gramercye! my sweit cowhubye.’
1513. Douglas, Æneis, VIII. Prol. 86. Knychtis ar kouhubis, and commonis plukyt crawis.
1558. Bp. Dury, in Knox, Hist. Ref., Wks. 1846, I. 262.
| Fra France we thought to have gottin a Rooby [Monsieur de Ruby]; | |
| And yit is he nothing but a cowhuby. |
a. 1605. Montgomerie, Flyting, 617. An clauering cohoobie that crackes of the pharie.
