Math \Math\, n. [AS. m[=ae][eth]; akin to m[=a]wan to mow, G. mahd math. See Mow to cut (grass).]

A mowing, or that which is gathered by mowing; -- chiefly used in composition; as, an aftermath. [Obs.]

The first mowing thereof, for the king's use, is wont to be sooner than the common math. --Bp. Hall.

Source: Webster's Revised Unabridged Dictionary (1913)