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

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First published 1990 (DOST Vol. VII).
This entry has not been updated since then but may contain minor corrections and revisions.

Ranconter, Renconter, n. Also: -cont(a)re. [F. rencontre (13th c.), 17th c. Eng. rencontre a chance meeting (1619), a conflict (1688), an unpleasant experience (1677). Cf. Rancounter n.]

1. An engagement between opposing forces; a battle or skirmish. 1558-66 Knox II 7.
In that rencontare was the Erle of Sudderland foirsaid schote in the arme 1581-1623 James VI Poems I 239/344.
A ruide rencontre [1591 recounter] then thay maide, together galleys clipt c1610 Melville Mem. 202.
The only slauchter was at the first renconter 1665–7 Lauder Jrnl. 13.
That ranconter that happened betuixt him and Sandwichs … sonefig. 1689 12th Rep. Hist. MSS. App. viii 41.
Those men who will charge mee with any blame, will loose their aime, for I am prepared for those rencontresb.
A coming together, or coinciding, of two opposed feelings. — 1637 Johnston Diary I 250.
Ane rencontre of tuo extremities, extrem greif … and extream joie

2. A meeting (with another person), esp. one not pre-arranged. 1586–7 Cal. Sc. P. IX 265.
My first and last ranconter with ȝowir honour 1601 James VI in Mackie Denmilne MSS 36.
Ye have … had a fortunat rencontre 1623 Mar & Kellie MSS 160.
The kings first ranconter with the prince was in the Pradoe in the nycht 1697 Misc. Hist. Soc. V 282.
I lately had an accidental rencontre … with Mr. Johnston, late secretary