vomitory

[ vom-i-tawr-ee, -tohr-ee ]

adjective

1. inducing vomiting; emetic.
2. of or relating to vomiting.

noun

, plural vom·i·to·ries.

1. an emetic.
2. an opening through which something is ejected or discharged.
3. Also called vomitorium. an opening, as in a stadium or theater, permitting large numbers of people to enter or leave.

vomitory

/ ˈvɒmɪtərɪ; -trɪ /

adjective

1. Also calledvomitiveˈvɒmɪtɪv causing vomiting; emetic

noun

1. Also calledvomitive a vomitory agent
2. rare.
   a container for receiving vomitus
3. Also calledvomitoriumˌvɒmɪˈtɔːrɪəm a passageway in an ancient Roman amphitheatre that connects an outside entrance to a tier of seats
4. an opening through which matter is ejected

Word History and Origins

Origin of vomitory¹

1595–1605; < Latin vomitōrius, equivalent to vomi-, variant stem of vomere to vomit + -tōrius -tory ¹

Example Sentences

The crowd poured out of the theatre through the vomitories, and Octavian, disdaining the kindly offices of his friend Holconius, rushed to the nearest door-way.

From Project Gutenberg

Here, too, from the oval arena, the rows of seats ascended in steps divided by vertical walls, separated into triangles by the stairs leading to the exits, or vomitories.

From Project Gutenberg

The plaza was defended on its three sides by low ranges of buildings, consisting of spacious halls with wide doors or vomitories opening into the square.

From Project Gutenberg

The vomitories are of the most perfect design for utility, and still remain in complete preservation, all vaulted over with admirable workmanship.

From Project Gutenberg

Suddenly came a frightful roar and a black beast leaped forth from the deep vomitory.

From Project Gutenberg