hydropathy

[ hahy-drop-uh-thee ]

noun

1. the curing of disease by the internal and external use of water.

hydropathy

/ haɪˈdrɒpəθɪ; ˌhaɪdrəʊˈpæθɪk /

noun

1. a pseudoscientific method of treating disease by the use of large quantities of water both internally and externally Also calledwater cure Compare hydrotherapy

Derived Forms

• hydropathic, adjective
• hyˈdropathist, noun

Other Words From

• hy·dro·path·ic [hahy-dr, uh, -, path, -ik], hydro·pathi·cal adjective
• hy·dropa·thist hydro·path noun

Word History and Origins

Origin of hydropathy¹

First recorded in 1835–45; hydro- ¹ + -pathy

Example Sentences

I try to find the "warm swimming baths" that the guide promises me - Matlock was known as the home of hydropathy - but Hartwell explains that today they've been transformed into an aquarium.

From BBC

These societal assumptions could not help but influence perceptions about irregular health systems, particularly those like hydropathy and homeopathy where women took active leadership roles.

From Salon

A hypochondriac, he was daffy about fashionable fads such as hydropathy.

From The Guardian

Dr. Warren seems to favor the practice of hydropathy to some extent, but must needs bear his testimony in full against homœopathy.

From Project Gutenberg

Spencer's nerve-centres, which could never endure prolonged attention, showed the usual symptoms of over-fatigue; and though he tried morphia and skating, hydropathy and rackets, he had to give up work early in 1868.

From Project Gutenberg