HEMLOCK Meaning and
Definition
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Hemlock is a term used to refer to several distinct but related meanings that encompass various aspects of nature, medicine, and history.
Firstly, hemlock is a toxic plant belonging to the genus Conium, particularly the species Conium maculatum. This plant, native to Europe and Western Asia, possesses highly poisonous properties due to the presence of alkaloids coniine and gamma-coniceine. Hemlock has prominently been associated with the poisonous plant responsible for the execution of the Greek philosopher Socrates in ancient Athens.
Secondly, hemlock can also refer to other plant species, such as water hemlock (Cicuta) or poison hemlock (Cicuta virosa and Aethusa cynapium), which similarly contain toxic alkaloids and can pose severe risks upon ingestion.
Beyond its botanical meaning, hemlock is also used metaphorically to denote a lethal substance or dangerous situation. In this sense, it can be applied to various contexts, including literature, where it might symbolize imminent danger or an impending catastrophe.
In the field of medicine, hemlock can be associated with medicinal use. In controlled settings, its extracts have been historically employed for therapeutic purposes, including analgesic, antispasmodic, or sedative effects. However, due to its high toxicity and narrow therapeutic window, the medical use of hemlock has diminished over time.
Overall, hemlock encompasses both a highly toxic plant species and a broader metaphorical reference to danger, as well as its historical implications and limited medicinal use.
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A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
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A wild poisonous plant, used medicinally.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
Top Common Misspellings for HEMLOCK *
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Other Common Misspellings for HEMLOCK
Etymology of HEMLOCK
The word hemlock originated from Old English hymlic, which was derived from the Old Norse word humall or humli. The Old Norse term, in turn, came from ancient Germanic roots. The ultimate origin of the word is uncertain, but it has been suggested to be related to the Proto-Indo-European root kemu- meaning to cover or to wrap. In Middle English, hymlic evolved into hemlok or hemlokke, before taking its modern spelling, hemlock.
Idioms with the word HEMLOCK
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