Dictionaries of the Scots Language
Dictionars o the Scots Leid

Scottish National Dictionary (1700–)

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First published 1941 (SND Vol. II).
This entry has not been updated since then but may contain minor corrections and revisions.

BOOL, BULE, v.³ [bul, byl]

1. “To weep in a very childish manner, with a continued humming sound; generally, to bule an' greet” (Rxb. 1825 Jam.²). vbl.n.Rxb. 1847 J. Halliday Rustic Bard 173:
There naething now is heard but boolin', Nought's seen but girnin' gabs an' scoolin'.

2. “To sing wretchedly with a low drawling note. The prep. at is added, as, ‘bulin' at a sang'” (Rxb. 1825 Jam.²).Slk. 1818 Hogg Brownie of Bodsbeck I. v.:
Lool away, bool away, Till we grow weary.