galenical

noun

ga·​len·​i·​cal gə-ˈle-ni-kəl How to pronounce galenical (audio)
gā-
: a medicine prepared by extracting one or more active constituents of a plant

Word History

Etymology

noun derivative of galenical "characteristic of such medicines," from Galenic "of galen," who prescribed plant-based remedies (from Galen + -ic entry 1) + -al entry 1

First Known Use

1737, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of galenical was in 1737

Dictionary Entries Near galenical

Cite this Entry

“Galenical.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/galenical. Accessed 31 Oct. 2024.

Medical Definition

galenical

noun
ga·​len·​i·​cal gə-ˈlen-i-kəl How to pronounce galenical (audio)
: a standard medicinal preparation (as an extract or tincture) containing usually one or more active constituents of a plant and made by a process that leaves the inert and other undesirable constituents of the plant undissolved
Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!