bitter principle

American  

noun

Chemistry.

1. any of several hundred natural compounds, usually of vegetable origin, having a bitter taste, and not admitting of any chemical classification.

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bitter principle British  

noun

1. any of various bitter-tasting substances, such as aloin, usually extracted from plants

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Etymology

Origin of bitter principle

First recorded in 1930–35

Example Sentences

See Examples For:

bitter principle

The root-bark of E. atropurpureus is the source of euonymin, a bitter principle with a powerful stimulating effect on the liver.

From The New Gresham Encyclopedia Volume 4, Part 3: Estremoz to Felspar by Various

In the year 1821, several chemists isolated from coffee a bitter principle, of peculiar properties, which was named caffein.

From Joseph Smith as Scientist A Contribution to Mormon Philosophy by John Andreas Widtsoe

Quass′ine, Quass′ite, the bitter principle of quassia-wood, the Bitter-wood of the West Indies.

From Chambers's Twentieth Century Dictionary (part 3 of 4: N-R) by Various

A product, used as a substitute for or an adulterant of coffee, containing a bitter principle, and made from the root of the endive and other similar plants.

From The Wonder Island Boys: Exploring the Island by Roger Thompson Finlay

It contains a bitter principle "cnicin," resembling the similar tonic constituent of the Dandelion, this being likewise useful for stimulating a sluggish liver to more healthy action.

From Herbal Simples Approved for Modern Uses of Cure by William Thomas Fernie