smelling salts
noun (used with a plural verb)
a preparation for smelling, essentially of ammonium carbonate with some agreeable scent, used as a stimulant and restorative.
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Origin of smelling salts
First recorded in 1830–40
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Based on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2019
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British Dictionary definitions for smelling salts
smelling salts
pl n
a pungent preparation containing crystals of ammonium carbonate that has a stimulant action when sniffed in cases of faintness, headache, etc
Collins English Dictionary - Complete & Unabridged 2012 Digital Edition
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Medicine definitions for smelling salts
smelling salts
[ smĕl′ĭng ]
pl.n.
Any of various preparations of ammonium carbonate and perfume, sniffed as a restorative or stimulant especially to relieve faintness and headache.
The American Heritage® Stedman's Medical Dictionary
Copyright © 2002, 2001, 1995 by Houghton Mifflin Company. Published by Houghton Mifflin Company.