Some 16th-century Italian clergymen tried to ban coffee because they believed it to be “satanic.” However, Pope Clement VII loved coffee so much that he lifted the ban and had coffee baptized in 1600.
Sur"fel, Sur"fle, v. t. Etym: [Cf. Sulphur.]
Definition: To wash, as the face, with a cosmetic water, said by some to be prepared from the sulphur. [Obs.] She shall no oftener powder her hair, [or] surfel her cheeks, . . . but she shall as often gaze on my picture. Ford.
Source: Webster’s Unabridged Dictionary 1913 Edition
7 May 2025
(noun) a person who is employed to deliver messages or documents; “he sent a runner over with the contract”
Some 16th-century Italian clergymen tried to ban coffee because they believed it to be “satanic.” However, Pope Clement VII loved coffee so much that he lifted the ban and had coffee baptized in 1600.