In the 18th century, the Swedish government made coffee and its paraphernalia (including cups and dishes) illegal for its supposed ties to rebellious sentiment.
AMPHISBAENA
Amphisbaena, genus Amphisbaena, Amphisbaenia, genus Amphisbaenia
(noun) type genus of the Amphisbaenidae
amphisbaena
(noun) (classical mythology) a serpent with a head at each end of its body
Source: WordNet® 3.1
Etymology
Noun
amphisbaena (plural amphisbaenas)
(mythological creature) A mythical serpent having a head at each end of its body, able to move in either direction.
Source: Wiktionary
Am`phis*bæ"na, n. Etym: [L., fr. Gr.
1. A fabled serpent with a head at each end, moving either way. Milton.
2. (Zoöl.)
Definition: A genus of harmless lizards, serpentlike in form, without legs, and with both ends so much alike that they appear to have a head at each, and ability to move either way. See Illustration in Appendix.
Note: The Gordius aquaticus, or hairworm, has been called an amphisbæna; but it belongs among the worms.
Source: Webster’s Unabridged Dictionary 1913 Edition
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Word of the Day
22 April 2025
BRIGHT
(adjective) made smooth and bright by or as if by rubbing; reflecting a sheen or glow; “bright silver candlesticks”; “a burnished brass knocker”; “she brushed her hair until it fell in lustrous auburn waves”; “rows of shining glasses”; “shiny black patents”
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