Firlot

/ˈfɜɹlɑt/ noun

Definition

A Scottish and Northern English unit of dry measure for grain, equivalent to about one-fourth of a bushel.

Etymology

From Middle English 'firlot,' likely from Old Norse 'fjórðungr' meaning 'a quarter.' Related to similar quarter-measure terms used in Scandinavian and Northern European trade.

Kelly Says

The firlot reveals how Scotland maintained its own measurement systems for centuries—while England standardized measures, Scottish farmers continued using firlots, and some rural areas didn't fully abandon them until the 20th century.

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