decoction

noun

de·​coc·​tion di-ˈkäk-shən How to pronounce decoction (audio)
1
: an extract obtained by decocting
2
: the act or process of decocting

Example Sentences

Recent Examples on the Web Coffee brewing is generally classified under three types: decoction, infusion or steeping, and pressure methods. Catherine Hu, Discover Magazine, 17 Feb. 2015 In decoction, ground coffee is in contact with high temperature water for a period of time, causing a more intense extraction [2]. Catherine Hu, Discover Magazine, 17 Feb. 2015 Brewed utilizing a decoction mash, lagered patiently, and made with all German ingredients. Blaine Callahan, Hartford Courant, 22 Sep. 2022 In vivo evidence demonstrates that gavage feeding the honeysuckle decoction leads to a significant elevation of MIR2911 in mouse blood and lung. Chao Yan, Scientific American, 17 June 2020 According to its website, the herbs are taken in the form of a tea, or an herbal decoction, which can either be cooked at home or prepared at the clinic. Gabrielle Bunton, The Courier-Journal, 10 Aug. 2021 According to its website, the herbs are taken in the form of a tea, or an herbal decoction, which can either be cooked at home or prepared at the clinic. Gabrielle Bunton, The Courier-Journal, 10 Aug. 2021 According to its website, the herbs are taken in the form of a tea, or an herbal decoction, which can either be cooked at home or prepared at the clinic. Gabrielle Bunton, The Courier-Journal, 10 Aug. 2021 According to its website, the herbs are taken in the form of a tea, or an herbal decoction, which can either be cooked at home or prepared at the clinic. Gabrielle Bunton, The Courier-Journal, 10 Aug. 2021 See More

These examples are programmatically compiled from various online sources to illustrate current usage of the word 'decoction.' Any opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.

Word History

First Known Use

15th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

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

Dictionary Entries Near decoction

Cite this Entry

“Decoction.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/decoction. Accessed 1 Apr. 2023.

Medical Definition

decoction

noun
de·​coc·​tion -ˈkäk-shən How to pronounce decoction (audio)
1
: the act or process of boiling usually in water so as to extract the flavor or active principle compare infusion sense 1b(1)
2
a
: an extract or liquid preparation obtained by decocting
b
: a liquid preparation made by boiling a medicinal plant with water usually in the proportion of 5 parts of the drug to 100 parts of water
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