Embrocate

/ˈɛmbroʊkeɪt/ verb

Definition

To rub with or apply a medicinal lotion, liniment, or oil to the body, especially for therapeutic purposes.

Etymology

From Greek 'embrochos' (drenched or soaked), from 'en-' (in) plus 'brochē' (a soaking). Medical terminology in English preserved this Greek root for external medicinal applications.

Kelly Says

Ancient Greek athletes would embrocate their muscles with olive oil mixed with herbs before competition—modern sports medicine still uses the exact same principle, just with fancier chemistry.

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