v. Obs. [OE. befléan, f. BE- 1 + fléan to FLAY.] trans. To flay, strip.

1

a. 1000.  in Wülcker, Voc., 218. Deglobere, spoliare, beflean.

2

1340.  Ayenb., 38. Kueade lordes … þet beulaȝeþ þe poure men. Ibid., 218. Þo þet be-uleaþ þe poure uolk.

3

1393.  Gower, Conf., III. 183. Out of his skin he was beflain All quick.

4