menstruum
[men-stroo-uh m, -struh m]
- a solvent.
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Origin of menstruum
1350–1400; special use of Middle English menstruum monthly period < Medieval Latin (in L only plural mēnstrua occurs). See menstrual
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Examples from the Web for menstruum
Historical Examples
Brande resolved this resin into two others—one soluble in ether; the other insoluble in that menstruum.
In that of the taverns and gin-shops the menstruum is usually gin, or plain spirit reduced to a corresponding strength.
Free from grit, and wholly soluble in 20 parts of the menstruum employed in its preparation, forming a nearly clear solution.
By this means every portion of the ingredients will be equally exposed to the action of the menstruum.
To concentrate or strengthen a solution by the expulsion of some of the fluid matter that forms the menstruum;—5.
menstruum
- a solvent, esp one used in the preparation of a drug
- a solid formulation of a drug
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Word Origin
C17 (meaning: solvent), C14 (menstrual discharge): from Medieval Latin, from Latin mēnstruus monthly, from mēnsis month; from an alchemical comparison between a base metal being transmuted into gold and the supposed action of the menses
Collins English Dictionary - Complete & Unabridged 2012 Digital Edition
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menstruum
(mĕn′strōō-əm)- A solvent, especially one used in extracting compounds from plant and animal tissues and preparing drugs.
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The American Heritage® Stedman's Medical Dictionary
Copyright © 2002, 2001, 1995 by Houghton Mifflin Company. Published by Houghton Mifflin Company.