subs. (old).—‘An old Maid; also a well-known Fish, said to be exceedingly Provocative’ (B. E. and GROSE). [Cf. Scots, maiden-skate = the thornback, Raia clavata.]
d. 1704. T. BROWN, Works, ii. 186. You were always very careful of your lord’s health, and never brought anything to his embraces but unpenetrated maids, or very sound THORNBACKS.
