ox gall

noun

variants or less commonly oxgall or ox-gall
ˈäks-ˌgȯl How to pronounce ox gall (audio)
1
: bile obtained from an ox
2
: a preparation consisting of alcohol mixed with ox bile that is used chiefly as a wetting agent (as for watercolors)
… painting large, flat areas in gouache can be difficult because of its tendency to streak. Adding a few dozen drops of ox gall to the cup of mixing water can minimize streaking by slowing drying time …—Linda S. Price

Word History

First Known Use

15th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of ox gall was in the 15th century

Dictionary Entries Near ox gall

Oxford weed

ox gall

oxgang

See More Nearby Entries 

Cite this Entry

“Ox gall.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/ox%20gall. Accessed 26 Nov. 2024.

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Medical Definition

ox gall

noun
variants also oxgall or ox-gall
-ˌgȯl How to pronounce ox gall (audio)
: bile obtained from an ox : bile salts sense 2
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