Atrabiliarious

/ˌætrəbɪliˈɛriəs/ adjective

Definition

An extremely rare or archaic variant meaning melancholic or characterized by the temperamental effects of black bile.

Etymology

From Latin atra bilis 'black bile' + -iarious adjectival suffix. An extended elaboration that is virtually unattested in modern usage.

Kelly Says

This word is so rare that it might represent what linguists call 'nonce-formation'—someone inventing a variant on the spot that never caught on with other speakers.

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