- this term is derived from Old Norse gata and denotes a way or road. It occurs frequently in street-names, including Glasgow's Trongate and Gallowgate, and Edinburgh's Canongate and Cowgate. Gate can also refer to a person's manner or style; if you gang yer ain gate, you go your own way. Historical sources reveal a number of other uses. The Statistical Account of Scotland for Clackmannanshire (1791-9) explains that
coal, when led to the shore of Alloa for exportation, pays a tax ... to the family of Mar, called Gate Mail. It was originally demanded, for the liberty of exporting the coal from the Pow of Alloa, and because the road leading through the estate to the harbour was a private one, though used by the public.