[f. SMOTHER sb. or v.] A kiln in which pottery in process of firing is blackened by smoke. Also attrib.
1851. D. Wilson, Preh. Ann. (1863), II. 13. The rude vessels of the smother kiln.
1865. Intellect. Obs., No. 39. 233. What some antiquaries have termed ‘smother-kilns.’
1894. Daily News, 13 Dec., 8/1. Fragments of Upchurch pottery, blackened by process of firing in smother kilns, turned up with every spadeful of earth.
1898. Berks., Bucks. & Oxon. Archæol. Jrnl., April, 12. The coarse ‘smother-kiln’ ware, probably made in the district.
