Dictionaries of the Scots Language
Dictionars o the Scots Leid

Scottish National Dictionary (1700–)

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First published 1934 (SND Vol. I).
This entry has not been updated since then but may contain minor corrections and revisions.

BEFA', v. Sc. form of befall, to happen. [bə′fɑ: bə′fǫ: See P.L.D. §§ 78.1, 85, 93.]

1. With no object.Sc. 1896 A. Cheviot Proverbs 54.:
Befa', befa' what e'er befa', There'll aye be a gowk in Purves Ha'.

2. With indirect object.Sc. 1819 Scott Bride of Lamm. xi.:
Wull a wins! — wull a wins! such a misfortune to befa' the House of Ravenswood.Abd. 1768 A. Ross The Rock and the Wee Pickle Tow ii.:
For never since ever they ca'd me as they ca' me, Did sick a mishap or mishanter befa' me.Hdg. 1892 J. Lumsden Sheephead and Trotters 81:
Oh! shame befa' the fause friends.