adder stone

noun

: a precious stone formerly believed to be efficacious in drawing out poison
especially : a highly absorbent aluminous gem

Word History

Etymology

so called from the belief that it is formed by adders and is efficacious against snakebite

First Known Use

1872, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of adder stone was in 1872

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Dictionary Entries Near adder stone

Cite this Entry

“Adder stone.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/adder%20stone. Accessed 26 Nov. 2024.

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