guaiacum

[ gwahy-uh-kuhm ]

noun

1. any of several tropical American trees or shrubs belonging to the genus Guaiacum of the caltrop family; lignum vitae.
2. the hard, heavy wood of such a tree; guaiac.
3. resin obtained from such a tree; guaiac.

guaiacum

/ ˈɡwaɪəkəm /

noun

1. any tropical American evergreen tree of the zygophyllaceous genus Guaiacum, such as the lignum vitae
2. the hard heavy wood of any of these trees
3. Also calledguaiacˈɡwaɪæk a brownish resin obtained from the lignum vitae, used medicinally and in making varnishes

Word History and Origins

Origin of guaiacum¹

First recorded in 1525–35; from New Latin, from Spanish guayaco, guayacán, from Taíno

Word History and Origins

Origin of guaiacum¹

C16: New Latin, from Spanish guayaco, of Taino origin

Example Sentences

In the muscular pains, however, which torment the patient during convalescence, the ammoniated tincture of guaiacum was found of service.

From Project Gutenberg

Lignum Vitæ, guaiacum, or pack wood, as it is sometimes called, is another beautiful forest tree of Antigua.

From Project Gutenberg

Minute instructions are given in old works as to the mode of administering guaiacum.

From Project Gutenberg

More benefit, however, appears to be derived from potassium iodide, guaiacum, the alkalis potash and lithia, and from the administration of aspirin and sodium salicylate.

From Project Gutenberg

The physician of the castle had prescribed constant doses of guaiacum taken in coffee.

From Project Gutenberg