demulcent

[ dih-muhl-suhnt ]

adjective

1. soothing or mollifying, as a medicinal substance.

noun

1. a demulcent substance or agent, often mucilaginous, as for soothing or protecting an irritated mucous membrane.

demulcent

/ dɪˈmʌlsənt /

adjective

1. soothing; mollifying

noun

1. a drug or agent that soothes the irritation of inflamed or injured skin surfaces

Word History and Origins

Origin of demulcent¹

1725–35; < Latin dēmulcent- (stem of dēmulcēns, present participle of dēmulcere to stroke down, soften), equivalent to dē- de- + mulc ( ere ) to soothe + -ent- -ent

Word History and Origins

Origin of demulcent¹

C18: from Latin dēmulcēre to caress soothingly, from de- + mulcēre to stroke

Example Sentences

The fruit of this plant (hemp seed) is demulcent and oleaginous.

From Project Gutenberg

Aperient and demulcent; also reputed alterative and antisyphilitic.

From Project Gutenberg

In Europe, however, it is merely regarded as an aromatic demulcent.

From Project Gutenberg

The infusion forms an excellent demulcent drink in catarrhs.

From Project Gutenberg

It is a demulcent, and at the same time the most refreshing drink that can be taken.

From Project Gutenberg

Related Words

• balm
• cosmetic
• cream
• ointment
• salve