LACHRYMATORY Meaning and
Definition
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Lachrymatory is an adjective that pertains to or describes something that induces or relates to the shedding of tears. The term originates from the Latin word "lacrima," meaning "tear," and is commonly used to refer to substances or objects associated with tears or tear gas.
Lachrymatory can specifically refer to certain plants or flowers that release a pungent aroma or irritating vapors, inducing tears when handled or crushed. These plants, commonly known as lachrymatory plants, have been historically utilized in various cultural practices, such as funerals and rituals, to symbolize or enhance emotional expression or grief.
Furthermore, the term lachrymatory is also used in a broader context to describe substances or agents that are intended to irritate the eyes and induce lacrimation (teary eyes). Tear gas, for instance, is an example of a lachrymatory substance used by law enforcement agencies for crowd control or riot situations. When released, tear gas causes temporary discomfort, stinging sensations, and involuntary tear production in individuals exposed to it.
In summary, lachrymatory refers to things that provoke or relate to the shedding of tears, whether it be certain plants or flowers with an irritant effect, or substances purposely designed to induce lacrimation like tear gas.
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A vessel anciently buried with the dead, and supposed to contain the tears shed for their loss, but whose real use was to hold perfumes or ointments.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
Common Misspellings for LACHRYMATORY
- kachrymatory
- pachrymatory
- oachrymatory
- lzchrymatory
- lschrymatory
- lwchrymatory
- lqchrymatory
- laxhrymatory
- lavhrymatory
- lafhrymatory
- ladhrymatory
- lacgrymatory
- lacbrymatory
- lacnrymatory
- lacjrymatory
- lacurymatory
- lacyrymatory
- lacheymatory
- lachdymatory
- lachrymatoyr
Etymology of LACHRYMATORY
The word "lachrymatory" has an etymology dating back to Latin and Greek. It ultimately derives from the Latin word "lacrima", which means "tear". The word "lachrymatory" entered into English through the late Latin word "lacrimatorium", which referred to a vessel or container used to collect tears.
In ancient Greece and Rome, lachrymatories were small flasks or vases used to collect tears shed during mourning or funeral rites. These vessels were designed to hold and preserve tears as a symbol of grief and remembrance for the deceased. The term "lachrymatory" eventually came to be associated with the vessels themselves and entered into the English language with that meaning. Nowadays, the word is commonly used to refer to these ancient tear-collecting vessels or any object associated with tears and mourning.
Similar spelling words for LACHRYMATORY
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