Page:An Etymological Dictionary of the Norn Language in Shetland Part I.pdf/73

Rh “bite” [bäit] as in English, but - [bi̇̄t, bit] from bíta. i [i̇̄, i] is found in derivatives, such as:, - in , , , in the two latter words alternating with “biter [bäiter]”, and in also with  [bjēdər], in which jē has arisen from i̇̄.

Alternation between i and äi must have begun with such words which were common to the Norn and English, : * and “white”; * and “bite”; *(d) and “ride”; and “rive”. Thereby it was observed that an older i (long) corresponded to English (äi) ai, and thereafter äi began to make its way, replacing i in Norn words which had no parallels in English. This development doubtless began in the 18th century, at the time that Norn was passing out of use, and later continued during the 19th century, at which time Norn is only found mixed with Lowland Scottish. This development hardly dates further back than to the 18th century, as there are only comparatively few words with the äi form only; while i and äi alternate as a rule, “ai” gradually becomes more and more predominant. In not a few words, however, the i-form alone accursoccurs [sic].