guaiacum

American  

[gwahy-uh-kuhm] / ˈgwaɪ ə kəm /

noun

1. any of several tropical American trees or shrubs belonging to the genus Guaiacum of the caltrop family; lignum vitae.

2. the hard, heavy wood of such a tree; guaiac.

3. resin obtained from such a tree; guaiac.

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guaiacum British  

/ ˈɡwaɪəkəm /

noun

1. any tropical American evergreen tree of the zygophyllaceous genus Guaiacum, such as the lignum vitae

2. the hard heavy wood of any of these trees

3. Also called: guaiac.  a brownish resin obtained from the lignum vitae, used medicinally and in making varnishes

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Etymology

Origin of guaiacum

First recorded in 1525–35; from New Latin, from Spanish guayaco, guayacán, from Taíno

Example Sentences

In the muscular pains, however, which torment the patient during convalescence, the ammoniated tincture of guaiacum was found of service.

From Project Gutenberg

Lignum Vitæ, guaiacum, or pack wood, as it is sometimes called, is another beautiful forest tree of Antigua.

From Project Gutenberg

Both in this disease and in other forms of chronic arthritis guaiacum may be given in combination with iodides, which it often enables the patient to tolerate.

From Project Gutenberg

More benefit, however, appears to be derived from potassium iodide, guaiacum, the alkalis potash and lithia, and from the administration of aspirin and sodium salicylate.

From Project Gutenberg

The physician of the castle had prescribed constant doses of guaiacum taken in coffee.

From Project Gutenberg