Dictionaries of the Scots Language
Dictionars o the Scots Leid

A Dictionary of the Older Scottish Tongue (up to 1700)

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First published 2001 (DOST Vol. IX).
This entry has not been updated since then but may contain minor corrections and revisions.

Sound, v.² P.p. also sound. [ME and e.m.E. sound (14th c.), sownd (c1460), also son, soun (c1400), F. sonder (1382 in Larousse), f. as Sound n.³] a. tr. To test, by means of lead and line, the depth of a stretch of water, or to investigate the nature of the sea- or river-bed below. Also in fig. context and intr. b. fig. To measure, ‘get to the bottom of’, as by sounding. c. To examine or question (a person) in order to elicit his feeling or opinion on a matter. d. intr. To make enquiries, solicit opinions (cf. sense c). —a. 1558-66 Knox I 120.
The Admirall schot a flote boite, which frome Grantoun craigis till be east Leyth sounded the deipe a1605 Montg. Ch. & Slae 1185 (Wr.).
Wyte such as should have sound the ground Before the anchor fall 1683 Insh Colonial Schemes 198.
Desiring you to furnish men and sloupes into such as wee should commissionat to sound the rivers —intr. (fig.) 1583 Sempill Warning iii.
Ȝe villbe vrakit on the vyndy schoir Ga rownd & sownd togidder vith the draucht —b. 1644 Hume Douglas 153.
Which I confesse is so profound and deep a folly, and mischantnesse, that I can by no means sound it —c. 1593 Innes Rev. III 102.
In quhilk heid being soundit letlie be his majestie I answerit [etc.] —d. 1629 Red Bk. Menteith II 14.
To sound how his majesties decreete is lyked of