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calomel

American  
[kal-uh-mel, -muhl] / ˈkæl əˌmɛl, -məl /

noun

Pharmacology.
  1. a white, tasteless powder, Hg 2 Cl 2 , used chiefly as a purgative and fungicide.


calomel British  
/ -məl, ˈkæləˌmɛl /

noun

  1. a colourless tasteless powder consisting chiefly of mercurous chloride, used medicinally, esp as a cathartic. Formula: Hg 2 Cl 2

"Collins English Dictionary — Complete & Unabridged" 2012 Digital Edition © William Collins Sons & Co. Ltd. 1979, 1986 © HarperCollins Publishers 1998, 2000, 2003, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2009, 2012

Etymology

Origin of calomel

1670–80; < New Latin calomelas coined from Greek kaló ( s ) fair + mélas black; allegedly so called because its original preparation involved turning black powder into white

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

Calomel a grain every night, or sublimate a quarter of a grain twice a day for a fortnight.

From Zoonomia, Vol. II Or, the Laws of Organic Life by Darwin, Erasmus

Gave pill—Antimony, three grains, Calomel, one grain, Nitre, ten grains.

From The Dog by Dinks

Calomel is well known to be practically insoluble in pure water at the common temperature.

From The History of the Medical Department of Transylvania University by Peter, Robert

Calomel in large doses has a history very like that of antimony.

From Psychotherapy by Walsh, James J. (James Joseph)

Calomel may also be used, with a view to promote the absorption of the tubercles; but the success is questionable.

From Sheep, Swine, and Poultry Embracing the History and Varieties of Each; The Best Modes of Breeding; Their Feeding and Management; Together with etc. by Jennings, Robert

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