GNU Collaborative International Dictionary of English

last match results

Found one definition

1.       
   Spence , n. [OF. despense, F. dépense, buffet, buttery, fr. OF. despendre to spend, distribute, L. dispendere, dispensum. See Dispense, Spend.]
   A place where provisions are kept; a buttery; a larder; a pantry.
   1913 Webster
   In . . . his spence, or “pantry” were hung the carcasses of a sheep or ewe, and two cows lately slaughtered.
   Sir W. Scott.
   
   1913 Webster
   Bluff Harry broke into the spence,
   And turned the cowls adrift.
   Tennyson.
   
   1913 Webster
   The inner apartment of a country house; also, the place where the family sit and eat. [Scot.]
   Jamieson.
   
   1913 Webster