toadstone

[ tohd-stohn ]

noun

1. any of various stones or stonelike objects, formerly supposed to have been formed in the head or body of a toad, worn as jewels or amulets.

toadstone

/ ˈtəʊdˌstəʊn /

noun

1. rare.
   an amygdaloidal basalt occurring in the limestone regions of Derbyshire

Word History and Origins

Origin of toadstone¹

First recorded in 1550–60; toad + stone

Word History and Origins

Origin of toadstone¹

C18: perhaps from a supposed resemblance to a toad's spotted skin

Example Sentences

Last of all he showed me a toadstone amulet set in silver, a charm to prevent and ward off the spells of fairies.

From Project Gutenberg

Four great bodies or beds of limestone are distinguishable, which alternate with three masses of trap, called toadstone.

From Project Gutenberg

The lead veins exist in the calcareous strata, but disappear at the limits of the toadstone.

From Project Gutenberg

Dark and weird are the legends relating to the power of the toadstone, that amulet so highly prized by witches and astrologers.

From Project Gutenberg

The toadstone was supposed to be specially powerful against witchcraft and poison.

From Project Gutenberg