Bloodletter

/ˈblʌdˌlɛtər/ noun

Definition

A person who practices bloodletting, the historical medical practice of draining blood to treat illness.

Etymology

From 'blood' and 'letter' (one who lets/allows). This occupational noun reflects a major medical practice from ancient times through the 1800s.

Kelly Says

Bloodletters were respected doctors for centuries—they used leeches and lancets to drain supposedly 'bad blood,' treating everything from headaches to insanity with the worst possible solution.

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