LACRYMATOR Meaning and
Definition
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A lacrymator is a chemical substance specifically designed to irritate the eyes, respiratory system, and mucous membranes, prompting the production of tears. Also known as a tear gas agent, it is primarily used by law enforcement agencies and militaries as a non-lethal means of crowd control or riot suppression. The term "lacrymator" originates from the Latin word "lacrima," meaning tear.
Lacrymators are typically delivered in the form of liquids, gases, or aerosols. Some well-known examples of lacrymators include CS gas (orthochlorobenzylidene malononitrile) and pepper spray (oleoresin capsicum). When deployed, these substances cause severe irritation in the eyes, which leads to intense tearing and temporary blindness. Additionally, they provoke coughing, sneezing, choking, and skin irritation in individuals who come into contact with them.
Due to its irritant effects, the use of lacrymators has become a subject of debate concerning their impact on human rights and potential health risks. While they are generally considered non-lethal, improper deployment or overexposure can result in complications, particularly for individuals with pre-existing respiratory conditions or other vulnerabilities. Consequently, the use of lacrymators is often subject to strict regulations and guidelines.
In summary, a lacrymator is a chemical agent designed to cause irritation and tear production in order to disperse crowds or subdue potential threats temporarily.
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Tear gas, benzene bromide, acetone, or xylol.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
Common Misspellings for LACRYMATOR
- lachrymatoyr
- lacrimmator
- lacrimator
- lacrimetor
- kacrymator
- pacrymator
- oacrymator
- lzcrymator
- lscrymator
- lwcrymator
- lqcrymator
- laxrymator
- lavrymator
- lafrymator
- ladrymator
- laceymator
- lacdymator
- lacfymator
- lactymator
- lac5ymator
Etymology of LACRYMATOR
The word "lacrymator" is derived from the Latin word "lacrima", which means "tear". The suffix "-tor" in Latin denotes an agent or instrument. Therefore, "lacrymator" can be roughly translated as "a tear-causing substance" or "a substance that produces tears". It is commonly used to refer to irritant substances that induce tearing and irritate the eyes, such as tear gas.
