cerate

noun

ce·​rate ˈsir-ˌāt How to pronounce cerate (audio)
: an unctuous preparation for external use consisting of wax or resin or spermaceti mixed with oil, lard, and medicinal ingredients

Word History

Etymology

Middle English, from Latin ceratum wax salve, from cera wax — more at cerumen

First Known Use

15th century, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of cerate was in the 15th century

Dictionary Entries Near cerate

Cite this Entry

“Cerate.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/cerate. Accessed 28 Mar. 2024.

Medical Definition

cerate

noun
ce·​rate ˈsi(ə)r-ˌāt How to pronounce cerate (audio)
: an unctuous preparation for external use consisting of wax or resin mixed with oil, lard, and medicinal ingredients
Love words? Need even more definitions?

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