FLY AGARIC Meaning and
Definition
-
Fly agaric is a term used to refer to a type of mushroom known scientifically as Amanita muscaria. It is a distinctive and iconic mushroom species that belongs to the Amanitaceae family. The term "fly agaric" is associated with its traditional use as a natural insecticide.
The fly agaric mushroom typically exhibits a striking appearance, featuring a bright red cap with white spots. It has a distinctively round and convex cap shape, which can range from 5 to 20 centimeters in diameter. The cap is supported by a white stem, and the underside of the cap bears white gills.
In terms of habitat, fly agaric mushrooms are usually found in temperate and boreal forests, forming symbiotic relationships with the roots of certain tree species. They typically grow in association with birch, pine, and spruce trees.
The fly agaric is known for possessing psychoactive properties, containing the compounds ibotenic acid and muscimol. These substances can induce hallucinogenic effects when ingested. Historically, certain indigenous cultures have used these mushrooms in traditional rituals and shamanic practices. However, it is essential to note that fly agaric is also highly toxic and can cause severe poisoning if consumed in large quantities. Consequently, it is not recommended for consumption without expert guidance. Moreover, the name "fly agaric" stems from its historical use as a method of insect control, whereby the mushrooms were crushed and mixed with milk to attract and poison flies.
-
Agaricus muscarius, a mushroom with red pileus and white gills, the juice of which has narcotic properties.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
Common Misspellings for FLY AGARIC
- dly agaric
- cly agaric
- vly agaric
- gly agaric
- tly agaric
- rly agaric
- fky agaric
- fpy agaric
- foy agaric
- flt agaric
- flg agaric
- flh agaric
- flu agaric
- fl7 agaric
- fl6 agaric
- fly zgaric
- fly sgaric
- fly wgaric
- fly qgaric
Etymology of FLY AGARIC
The word "fly agaric" has its roots in two different components.
Firstly, "fly" refers to the insect known as a fly. It originates from the Old English word "flēoge", which means "fly".
Secondly, "agaric" comes from the Latin word "agaricum", which was borrowed from the Greek word "agarikon". "Agarikon" referred to a fungus, and this term was used in ancient Greece to describe various types of fungi, including the fly agaric. The Greek word "agarikon" is believed to have Semitic origins, possibly from the Akkadian word "egrikku", meaning "mushroom".
Therefore, when combined, "fly agaric" essentially means "fly fungus" or "fungus that attracts flies". It describes the poisonous mushroom known for its ability to attract flies due to its strong odor.
Similar spelling words for FLY AGARIC
Infographic
Add the infographic to your website:
