Now dial. [OE. sped, of unknown origin.] The gummy or wax-like matter secreted at the corner of the eye.
c. 725. Corpus Gloss., P 375. Petuita, sped.
a. 1100. in Napier, O. E. Glosses, I. 1728. Glaucoma, sped.
1656. W. Du Gard, trans. Comenius’ Gate Lat. Unl., § 204. 57. The eyes … whose corners often times sweat tears, every day spade or filth.
1825. Britton, Beauties Wilts, III. 378. Spade, the congealed gum of the eye.
1888–93. in Berks, Wilts, and Glouc. glossaries.
