Alexiterical

/ˌæl.ɛk.sɪˈtɛr.ɪ.kəl/ adjective

Definition

The -ical variant form of alexiteric; relating to protection against plague and contagious diseases.

Etymology

From alexiteric with the suffix -ical. The -ical ending emphasized scholarly or formal medical application of the term.

Kelly Says

Alexiterical compounds during medieval times included everything from unicorn horns (fake) to theriac (real ingredients, questionable effect)—desperation made people trust in elaborate remedies with exotic names and expensive ingredients.

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