Eaglestone

/ˈiːɡəlstoʊn/ noun

Definition

A hollow stone containing smaller stones inside, formerly believed to be found in eagle nests and valued as a magical charm or amulet.

Etymology

From 'eagle' + 'stone,' named from medieval folklore claiming eagles carried these stones in their nests. Also called 'aetites' from Greek, the word reflects pre-scientific beliefs about natural objects.

Kelly Says

Medieval people believed eaglestones (really just hollow geodes) were mystical because eagles supposedly carried them—showing how folk etymology and magical thinking shaped how people named natural objects before geology existed.

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