Guttae anglicanae is a term from linguistics which refers to the silent E in English words. It is pronounced as /ˈɡʌteɪ æŋɡliˈkeɪneɪ/. The first part "guttae" comes from the Latin word for "droplets". In the context of English spelling, "guttae anglicanae" describes the historical practice of adding a silent E at the end of English words, which often changes their pronunciation. This spelling rule was introduced around the 16th century and is still a feature of modern English spelling, particularly in words ending in -able, -ible, -ance, and -ence.
Guttae anglicanae, commonly known as "English drops," refers to a medical treatment procedure that was prevalent in the 17th and 18th centuries. The term "guttae" stems from the Latin word for drops, while "anglicanae" indicates its association with the English medical practice.
In medical terms, guttae anglicanae signifies the administration of specific remedies or substances in the form of drops. It primarily referred to the method of applying medicinal drops onto various parts of the body for therapeutic purposes. These drops were typically composed of herbal extracts, distilled liquids, or other therapeutic substances that were believed to have healing properties.
Guttae anglicanae was a popular treatment technique during the time, practiced by both physicians and apothecaries. The drops were usually dispensed using a dropper or a small, narrow-necked bottle called a phial. This method allowed for precise application of the medication as recommended by the medical practitioner.
Although guttae anglicanae was commonly employed in the treatment of various ailments, its usage diminished with the advancements in medical science and the introduction of more sophisticated therapeutic techniques. The practice eventually faded away as medical understanding and technology progressed.
Today, the term guttae anglicanae is mainly encountered in historical medical texts, serving as a reminder of the evolution of medical practices and the role drops played in past healthcare methodologies.
English drops; a preparation made by mixing oil of lavender 1 part, alcohol 8 parts, and spirit of hartshorn 32 parts, and distilling; used as a stimulant.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
The phrase "guttae anglicanae" is a Latin term that translates to "English drop".
The word "guttae" means "drops" or "gouts" in Latin, derived from the noun "gutta" meaning "drop". It can also refer to small ornaments or droplets used in architectural designs.
The term "anglicanae" is the adjective form of "Anglicus", meaning "English" in Latin. It denotes something specifically related to or originating from England.
Therefore, "guttae anglicanae" essentially means "English drops" or "drops from England". It is a term that describes a particular architectural style characterized by the use of small, decorative drops or pendants in English Gothic architecture.