Antivenefic

/ˌæntiˈvɛnɪfɪk/ adjective

Definition

Acting as an antidote to poison; counteracting the effects of venom or toxic substances.

Etymology

From anti- (against) + venefica (Latin for poisoning or witchcraft). An archaic medical term blending Latin toxicology with antidote science.

Kelly Says

Medieval physicians called antidotes 'antivenefic' medicines—the word itself carries the mystique of alchemy and ancient pharmacology, when treating poisoning seemed like magic.

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