dial. [Perhaps the same word as SWAD sb.2] A soldier. Also Swad-gill [GILL sb.7 = fellow], Swadkin.

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1708.  Mem. J[ohn] H[all], 10. Swad or Swadkin, a Soldier.

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1757.  W. Vernon, Bardolph & Trulla, i. in Lond. Chron., 1–3 Dec., 533/3. Trulla, while I thy love enjoy’d, Nor any of the swads beside, With you might toy and kiss.

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1787.  W. Taylor, Scots Poems, 170. They may … for a swad or sailor sell you In time o’ weir.

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1796.  Grose, Dict. Vulgar T. (ed. 3), Swad, or Swadkin, a soldier. Cant.

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1812.  Swod-gill [see SWADDY sb.].

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1853.  Whistle-Binkie (Sc. Songs), Ser. I. 88. Ilk struttin swad, ilk reelin’ sailor.

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1867.  Smyth, Sailor’s Word-bk., Swad, or Swadkin, a newly raised soldier.

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