Collyrite

/ˈkɒləraɪt/ noun

Definition

A rare mineral or a medicinal preparation, related to historic eye treatments.

Etymology

From 'collyrium' combined with the suffix '-ite', which is used in mineralogy. The formation suggests either a mineral compound or a solidified form of collyrium eye salve.

Kelly Says

The '-ite' suffix in mineralogy is so popular that people started applying it to all sorts of things—including ancient medicines, creating charming but scientifically questionable names!

Related Words

Explore More Words

Get the Word Orb API

Complete word intelligence in one call. Free tier — 50 lookups/day.