A bitter chemical compound found in wormwood that gives absinthe liqueur its distinctive sharp taste and medicinal properties.
From French absinthe (wormwood plant) plus the chemical suffix -in, indicating a pure chemical substance extracted from the plant. The term emerged in 19th-century chemistry as scientists began isolating active compounds from traditional medicines.
This compound was once thought to cause 'absinthism'—a supposed addiction and madness from drinking absinthe—but modern science shows absinthe's effects were exaggerated by artists and journalists in Belle Époque Paris who wanted a dramatic story.
Complete word intelligence in one call. Free tier — 50 lookups/day.