eyewater

[ ahy-waw-ter, ahy-wot-er ]

noun

, Archaic.

1. natural tears or a watery discharge from the eye.
2. a lotion for the eyes.

Word History and Origins

Origin of eyewater¹

First recorded in 1580–90; eye + water

Example Sentences

I know him well," he answered; "he is a worthless, idle fellow, a travelling doctor, who sells pills to cure the plague; extracts the worm from dogs, and crops their ears; eases young women of thick necks; and gives the old ones eyewater, which, instead of healing, makes them blind.

From Project Gutenberg

An invaluable eyewater for weak eyes and all kinds of sore and inflamed eyes.

From Project Gutenberg

I found a handkerchief tied close, but not too tightly, round the eyes for a whole night, to be a more effectual remedy for this disagreeable complaint than any application of eyewater; and my companions being induced to try the same experiment, derived equal benefit from it.

From Project Gutenberg

I do not recommend its use as eyewater, though an old farmer assures me it has undoubted virtues when thus applied.

From Project Gutenberg

Associated words: palpebral, palpebrate. eyesore, n. blemish, defect. eyewater, a. collyrium.

From Project Gutenberg