Sc. [Presumably related to STELL v.] An enclosure for giving shelter to sheep or cattle, usually circular, smaller than a ‘fold’ and with higher walls. Also a ring of trees serving as a shelter for sheep or cattle.
1766. State of Proc., Dk. Roxburghe v. Pringle, 10. At replacing the Cauld, the Workers did take Stones from a Stell the Deponent had built.
1829. Brockett, N. C. Gloss. (ed. 2), Stell, a fold or small enclosure for cattle.
1844. Stephens, Bk. Farm, II. 58. A stell may be formed of planting or high stone-wall. Either will afford shelter.
1886. C. Scott, Sheep Farming, 126. ‘Stells’ were erected at various parts of the hills for sheltering the sheep.
