scammony

[ skam-uh-nee ]

noun

, plural scam·mo·nies.

1. a twining, Asian convolvulus, Convolvulus scammonia.

scammony

/ skæˈməʊnɪɪt; ˈskæmənɪ /

noun

1. a twining Asian convolvulus plant, Convolvulus scammonia, having arrow-shaped leaves, white or purple flowers, and tuberous roots
2. a resinous juice obtained from the roots of this plant and having purgative properties
3. any of various similar medicinal resins or the plants that yield them

Derived Forms

• scammoniate, adjective

Other Words From

• scam·mo·ni·ate [ska-, moh, -nee-it], adjective

Word History and Origins

Origin of scammony¹

before 1000; Middle English scamonie, Old English < Latin scamōnia < Greek skamōnía

Word History and Origins

Origin of scammony¹

Old English, via Latin from Greek skammōnia, of obscure origin

Example Sentences

The compound scammony powder is the form in which it is usually given, and of that five grains would be a dose for a child two years old.

From Project Gutenberg

Take Socotrine aloes, gamboge, and castile soap, of each one dram; ipecac and scammony, of each thirty grains; oil of anise, thirty drops.

From Project Gutenberg

Convolvulus scammonia.—This plant furnishes the scammony of the druggists.

From Project Gutenberg

He made use of the narcotics mandragora, henbane, and probably also poppy-juice, and as a laxative used greatly a vegetable substance called "mercury," beet and cabbage, and cathartics such as scammony and elaterium!

From Project Gutenberg

Tell me what scammony you want, and it shall be done.'

From Project Gutenberg