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devil's dung

American  

noun

  1. asafetida.


Etymology

Origin of devil's dung

First recorded in 1595–1605

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.

The Europeans were less friendly, calling it devil's dung and stinking gum.

From BBC

Memorable moments included calling the unfettered drive for money "the devil's dung" and receiving, albeit with apparent hesitation, a hammer and sickle crucifix from Bolivian President Evo Morales.

From Los Angeles Times

He quoted his namesake, St Francis of Assisi, in calling money the “devil’s dung,” according to Vatican Radio.

From Time

It was March, and a sudden cold had set in; and Frau Hadebusch had a superstitious fear of coal, which she characterised as Devil’s dung.

From Project Gutenberg

In Germany, Sweden, and Italy, it is known as "Devil's Dung."

From Project Gutenberg