menstruum
[men-stroo-uh m, -struh m]
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noun, plural men·stru·ums, men·stru·a [men-stroo-uh, -struh] /ˈmɛn stru ə, -strə/.
a solvent.
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 of menstruum
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.
By this means every portion of the ingredients will be equally exposed to the action of the menstruum.
Free from grit, and wholly soluble in 20 parts of the menstruum employed in its preparation, forming a nearly clear solution.
To concentrate or strengthen a solution by the expulsion of some of the fluid matter that forms the menstruum;—5.
menstruum
noun plural -struums or -strua (-strʊə) obsolete
Word Origin for menstruum
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]
n. pl. men•stru•ums
The American Heritage® Stedman's Medical Dictionary
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