dial. In Orkney and Shetland: A collective term for reeds, rushes, etc.
1623. in Barry, Orkney Isl. (1805), App. 467. That no persone shall cut bent nor pull floss, in time comming, before the first of Lammas yearly.
1793. Statist. Acc. Scotl., VII. 524. The tenants paid in kind … floss or reeds.
1866. Edmondston, Shetl. & Orkn. Gloss., Floss, the common rush.
