Epicrasis

/ɛpɪˈkreɪsɪs/ noun

Definition

In classical medicine, a mixture or blending of the four humors (bodily fluids) that creates a balanced temperament or health condition.

Etymology

From Greek 'epi-' (upon) + 'krasis' (mixing, blending). A Hippocratic medicine term describing how bodily substances combined to determine health and personality.

Kelly Says

Medieval doctors literally believed your personality was determined by humoral 'mixing'—so a cheerful person had good 'epicrasis,' but we now know personality comes from the brain, not fluid ratios.

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