How Do You Spell SCARIFICATOR?

Pronunciation: [skaɹˈɪfɪkˌe͡ɪtə] (IPA)

Scarificator is a medical instrument used to make incisions in the skin. The word is pronounced as /skarɪfɪkeɪtər/ (skar-uh-fi-kay-ter) with emphasis on the second syllable. The pronunciation is based on the Latin root word scarificātor, which is spelled with a c instead of a k. The spelling of scarificator with a K is likely due to its French origin. Despite the spelling discrepancy, the word has maintained its pronunciation and meaning throughout history.

SCARIFICATOR Meaning and Definition

1. A scarificator is a medical device used for the therapeutic practice of bloodletting, which was commonly performed in ancient times to restore the balance of bodily humors. The term scarificator, derived from the Latin word "scarificare" meaning to "make a superficial incision," refers to a specialized instrument designed to create controlled punctures or superficial cuts on the surface of the skin in order to induce blood flow.

   Typically made of metal, a scarificator consists of a rectangular or circular casing with a hinged lid. This lid is adorned with multiple spring-loaded blades or lancets, which retract into the casing when not in use. The device is armed by pulling a mechanism that locks the blades in a protruding position. Upon pressing the device against the desired location on the skin, a trigger is pulled to release the blades swiftly, creating multiple incisions. The depth of these incisions can be adjusted to control the amount of blood being drawn. Scarificators were widely used during the 18th and 19th centuries, predominantly by barber-surgeons and physicians.

   The primary purpose of a scarificator was to treat various ailments, as it was believed that by releasing excessive or "bad" blood, the patient's health could be improved. Bloodletting was often employed to alleviate symptoms such as fevers, headaches, and gastrointestinal disturbances. However, the practice gradually declined with the advancement of medical knowledge and the recognition of alternative treatments. Presently, scarificators are considered obsolete and are only encountered in historical collections or museums.

2. An instrument for scarifying; it consists of a number of concealed cutting blades, set near together, which are projected at will by a spring.

   A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.

3. An agricultural instr. for stirring and loosening the soil without turning it over; an instr. containing lancets for cupping.

   Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.

Common Misspellings for SCARIFICATOR

• acarificator
• zcarificator
• xcarificator
• dcarificator
• ecarificator
• wcarificator
• sxarificator
• svarificator
• sfarificator
• sdarificator
• sczrificator
• scsrificator
• scwrificator
• scqrificator
• scaeificator
• scadificator
• scafificator
• scatificator
• sca5ificator
• sca4ificator

Etymology of SCARIFICATOR

The word "scarificator" has its origin in the Latin term "scarificare", composed of two words: "scari" meaning "to maim" or "to scratch" and "facere" meaning "to make". The Latin term was introduced into English in the late 16th century, giving rise to the word "scarificator". A scarificator is a medical instrument or device designed for making small incisions or scratches on the skin, mainly for bloodletting purposes. The term "scarificator" is still occasionally used in medical literature, although the practice of bloodletting has significantly declined over time.

Plural form of SCARIFICATOR is SCARIFICATORS