philter

[ fil-ter ]

noun

1. a potion, charm, or drug supposed to cause the person taking it to fall in love, usually with some specific person.
2. a magic potion for any purpose.

verb (used with object)

, phil·tered, phil·ter·ing.

1. to enchant or bewitch with a philter.

Other Words From

• philter·er noun

Word History and Origins

Origin of philter¹

First recorded in 1580–90; from French philtre, from Latin philtrum; philtrum

Example Sentences

Here, the chef, unseen, flips your chosen items in a wok with a philter of chile and spice.

From New York Times

For a fact, they say that people of his nationality have philters for that purpose.

From Project Gutenberg

This remark appears judicious, since the potion described by the Abbé was evidently intended as an amorous philter.

From Project Gutenberg

The use of herbs as component parts of love philters and charms is a most ancient custom, and lingered into the nineteenth century in country communities.

From Project Gutenberg

The highest personages of the court resorted to the astrologers for horoscopes, charms, or philters.

From Project Gutenberg

Related Words

• draught
• elixir