Definitions For Theriac

Adjective

(obsolete) theriacal, theriacal; medicinal.

Noun

THERIAC (plural THERIACs) (historical, pharmacology) A supposed universal antidote against poison, especially snake venom; specifically, one such developed in the 1st century as an improvement on mithridate. : {{ux, en, Theriac was essentially homeopathic in its supposed function, being an "improvement" on mithridate by virtue of containing more poisons.}} (obsolete) treacle, treacle; molasses.

Usage notes

Originally developed in antiquity for kings and used as both preventive and antidote, it came to be regarded as a panacea. In mediaeval times it was thought effective against the bubonic plague and was known among English apothecaries as Venice treacle.

Translations

Italian: teriaca, f

Alternative forms

theriaca

Etymology

From "antidote" feminine form of θηριακός, , concerning venomous beasts, from θήρ, , beast.

See also

mithridate panacea treacle Venice treacle

Anagrams

Archite, Rhaetic