THERIAC

Etymology

Noun

theriac (plural theriacs)

(historical, pharmacology) A supposed universal antidote against poison, especially snake venom; specifically, one such developed in the 1st century as an improvement on mithridate.

(obsolete) Treacle; molasses.

Usage notes

• Originally developed in antiquity for kings and used as both preventive and antidote, it came to be regarded as a panacea. In mediaeval times it was thought effective against the bubonic plague and was known among English apothecaries as Venice treacle.

Adjective

theriac (comparative more theriac, superlative most theriac)

(obsolete) Theriacal; medicinal.

Anagrams

• Archite, Rhaetic

Source: Wiktionary

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The"ri*ac, The*ri"a*ca, n. Etym: [L. theriaca an antidote against the bite of serpents, Gr. thériaque. See Treacle.]

1. (Old Med.)

Definition: An ancient composition esteemed efficacious against the effects of poison; especially, a certain compound of sixty-four drugs, prepared, pulverized, and reduced by means of honey to an electuary;

– called also theriaca Andromachi, and Venice treacle.

2. Treacle; molasses. British Pharm.

The"ri*ac, The*ri"a*cal, a. Etym: [Cf. F. thériacal.]

Definition: Of or pertaining to theriac; medicinal. "Theriacal herbs." Bacon.

Source: Webster’s Unabridged Dictionary 1913 Edition

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