n. Probably from “saintes” saints, or from sanctities; -- used as an oath. [ Obs. ] Shak. [ 1913 Webster ]
n. [ F., fr. sortir to go out, to issue, probably fr. L. sortus, for surrectus, p. p. of surgere to raise up, to rise up. See Source. ] (Mil.) The sudden issuing of a body of troops, usually small, from a besieged place to attack or harass the besiegers; a sally. [ 1913 Webster ]