Domestic Encyclopedia Or A Dictionary Of Facts, And Useful Knowledge Vol3 | by A. F. M. Willich

Jet

Jet, a black inflammable concrete, which becomes electrical by friction; attracts light substances, in the same manner as amber, and, when burning, emits a bituminous smell. It has the grain of wood, ...

Iliac Passion

Iliac Passion, or Ileus, one of the most dangerous maladies with which mankind is afflicted, and in which the motion of the bowels is totally inverted. It generally arises from spasms, or obstructions...

Implements

Implements of Husbandry, denote those machines or instruments which are used in the different branches of rural and domestic economy; such as ploughs, harrows, hoes, churns, threshing-machines, straw-...

Inarching

Inarching, in gardening, is a method of engrafting, denominated grafting by approach; and is employed when the stock intended to graft on, and the tree from which the scion is to be taken, are s...

Index

Index, in literature, expresses that part of a work, or single volume, which is generally subjoined to its conclusion, and arranged in alphabetical order, with particular references to the pages where...

Indigestion

Indigestion, or Dyspepsia, a complaint which chiefly consists in the loss of appetite, and is generally attended with nausea, flatulence, vomiting, heart-burn, cos-tiveness, as well as other unpleasan...

Indigo

Indigo, a drug for dyeing blue, prepared from the indigo plant, or Indigofera tinctoria, L a native of the warmer parts of Asia, Africa, and America. Instead of describing the particular ...

Industry

Industry, Houses of, are buildings erected in various parts of England, in order to maintain the sick, infirm, and aged poor; while children and healthy adults, who are received into the house, labour...

Infancy

Infancy denotes the first period of human life, previous to the age of seven years. Having already treated of the diet proper for infants, under the article Food, and of their amuse-- ments, under ...

Infection

Infection, the communication or contraction of some disease, from the effluvia, which arise either from the sick, or from the apartment in which they reside: hence it does not necessarily imply ...

Inflammation

Inflammation, in medicine, is a tumor attended with unnatural heat, redness, painful tension of the skin, and febrile symptoms, which are more or less violent, according to the nature of the part ...

Inflammatory Fever

Inflammatory Fever, a Su den and acute febrile disease, chiefly prevalent in hot climates. It commences its attack with a considerable degree of shivering, and severe. pain in the small part of the ...

Ingrossing

Ingrossing, is the act of accumulating or buying up corn or other provisions, by wholesale, with a view to sell the same articles at a higher price, and thus to oppress as well the poor, as those who ...

Ink

Ink, a black fluid employed in Writing, and usually prepared with an infusion of galls, copperas, and gum-arabic. The chief requisites for the making of good ink, are, 1. Limpidity, so that it may ...

Inn

Inn, a place appointed for the reception and entertainment of travellers. The Inns of this country are under admirable regulations, which, if properly enforced, would prevent many iniquitous prac...

Inoculation, Budding

Inoculation, or budding, in horticulture, an operation performed on apricots, nectarines, plums, cherries, or other stcne-fruit trees, and also upon oranges and jasmines. It is reputed to be superior ...

Inoculation

Inoculation, in medicine, is the transferring of distempers from one subject to another, particularly of the small, and cow-pox. The practice of inoculation is of great antiquity in the East, whenc...

Insects

Insects, in natural history, form the most diminutive class of animals, which are distinguished by certain incisures or indentations found in their bodies. See also Animal Kingdom ; vol. i. p. 58. ...

Instinct

Instinct, denotes that faculty or disposition of mind, by whicb animals are led spontaneously to perform whatever is necessary to-preserve the individual, or to continue the species ; independently of...

Insurance

Insurance, in law and commerce, denotes a contract by which one party engages to pay the other, for a certain premium or consideration, such losses as he may accidentally sustain. The common kinds of ...

Interest

Interest, implies the premium or sum, paid for the loan or use of money The rate of legal interest has varied, and been progressively reduced, during the last two centuries ; accordingly as the qua...

Interfering

Interfering, a local disease incident to horses. It arises from various causes ; and though this malady is sometimes constitutional in the animal, yet it is more frequently occasioned by an improper m...

Intestines

Intestines, in anatomy, are those hollow membranous- tubes of the human body, commonly termed the guts or bowels, which extend from the right orifice of the stomach to the anus. They are six times lon...

Intoxication

Intoxication is a term expressing that depravity of human nature, which requires no farther explanation, as it is but too often practised both by the vulgar, and those whose professions lead us to exp...

Saint John's-Wort

Saint John's-Wort Hypericum, L. a genus of plants comprising sixty-three species, nine of which are natives of Britain. Of these, the principal is the perforatum, Common, or Perforated Saint John's-wo...

Joint

Joint, generally speaking, signities the juncture of two or more things : it is also applied to the human frame, in which case the joints are anatomically called articulations. The joints, like oth...

Journal

Journal, or Diary, properly signifies a day-book, register, or account of particular circumstances occurring daily, and deserving to be noted. Journals are of extensive utility, in an economical po...

Joy

Joy, one of the most power ful mental emotions, accompanied with an extraordinary degree of pleasure. The effect of this sensation, if not too violent, invigorates the whole animal frame, and facilita...

Ipecacuanha

Ipecacuanha, a medicinal root imported from the West Indies. There are three kinds distinguished by the eye, namely, the ash-coloured, or grey, brown, and white; but the first of these is justly prefe...

Iron

Iron, the hardest and most extensively useful of the imperfect metals : it is naturally of a livid, whitish-grey colour, and found in great abundance in various parts of the world, both in a pure stat...

Irrigation

Irrigation, signifies the watering, or artificial flooding of land. The principal object in irrigating the soil, is a proper supply of water ; and, if that fluid abound with mud, the land will be m...

Irritability

Irritability, denotes that essential property of animals, in consequence of which their fibres, on being touched, contract or become short, in a greater or less degree. Chemists have lately endeavo...

Isinglass

Isinglass, or Ichthyocolla, a preparation from different species of a Russian fish, called sturgeon, of which we have given some account in the article Caviare. It may also be produced from the ai...

Issues

Issues, are small artificial apertures or ulcers in the muscular parts of the body, for the purpose of draining superfluous moisture, or of giving vent to some noxious humours. Issues are usually m...

Itch

Itch, a cutaneous affection, in which the skin is covered with small watery pustules, that appear first on the wrist, or between the fngers, then upon the arms, legs, etc. where they are accompanied w...

Juice

Juice, denotes the sap of vegetables, or the fluids of animals.-See Blood, Plants, Sap, etc. The juices of several plants and fruits are expressed with a view to obtain their essential salts, and f...

Julep

Julep, a convenient form of medicines, which require no decoction, and are mixed up with syrup or sugar, in order to dilute them properly, or to cover their pungency. Acid julep consists of 3 drams...

Juniper-Tree

Juniper-Tree, or Junipe-rus, L. a native shrub, comprising several species ; of which the principal is the Juniperus communis, or Common Juniper-tree : it grows in many parts of Britain, upon dry, bar...

Ivory

Ivory, the tooth or tusk of an elephant, growing on each side of his trunk, and somewhat resembling the shape of a horn. Ivory is much esteemed for its remarkable whiteness, its polish, and beautif...

Ivy

Ivy, the Common, or Hedera Helix, L. a native plant, growing in woods, hedges, and about old buildings: it flowers in the month of October. This plant was first brought to Europe from Canada, and h...

Kale

Kale, the Sea, or Crambe, L. a genus of perennial plants comprising three species, one of which is a native of Britain, namely, the marilima, Cliff-kale, Sea-cabbage, Or Sea Colewort. It grows on sand...

Calendar

Kalendar, or Calendar, denotes either the distribution of time, accommodated to the purposes of life; or a table or almanack, comprising the order of days, weeks, months, etc. There are various sys...

Kelp

Kelp, a term used to denote a species of pot-ash, employed in glass manufactories for crystallizing the metal. Kelp consists of the calcined ashes of the sea-wrack and other plants growing on the s...

Kennel

Kennel, or Channel, generally signifies a small cavity or hollow for conducting water through the streets; but, in its present sense, it is peculiarly applied to denote a house or building for the rec...

Kermes-Mineral

Kermes-Mineral, one of the best preparations of antimony, which is so termed from its close resemblance to the insect called Kermes, or Coccus ilicis, L.- It is prepared by boiling together half a pou...

Key

Key, a well-known instrument employed for opening Locks, of which we shall give some account, under that article. Key also denotes an extensive wharf for the convenience of loading and unloading go...

Kidnapping

Kidnapping, a term which implies the forcible taking away or seizure of any man, woman, or child, from their native soil, and conveying them to foreign countries.- This atrocious violation of natural ...

Kidney-Vetch

Kidney-Vetch, Anthyllis, L. an indigenous biennial plant, comprising several species, of which the vulneraria, or Lady's-finger, is the principal: it grows in meadows and pastures, in a chalky or calc...

Kidnies

Kidnies, in anatomy, are those two viscera which separate the urine of animals. They are situated in the lower part of the cavity of the abdomen, on each side of the vertebrae of the loins, between th...

Kilderkin

Kilderkin, a liquid measure, consisting of twofirkins ; and two kilderkins make a barrel.- See FIRKIN. ...

Kiln

Kiln, a stove used in various manufactures. It also denotes a building for the admission of heat, in order to dry or burn certain materials deposited in such an edifice.- See Brick, Malt, and Lime. ...

King-Fisher

King-Fisher, or Alcedo, L. a genus of birds frequenting every quarter of the world, and comprising numerous species ; the principal of which is the ispida, or common king-fisher. This bird is about...

Kino

Kino, a gummy resinous substance, exuding from incisions made in a tree called Pau de San-gue, a native of the inland parts of Africa, but of which there is no botanical account. From its sensible ...

Kitchen

Kitchen, an apartment or room destined for the dressing of provisions, and preparing them for the table. In 1794, a patent was granted to Mr. G. Stratton, for an improved kitchen-range, or stove, w...

Kitchen-Garden

Kitchen-Garden, a piece of ground laid out for the cultivation of fruit, herbs, pulse, and other culinary vegetables. A kitchen-garden ought to be situated on one side of the house, adjoining to th...

Kite

Kite, or Falco Milvus, L. a well-known bird of prey, which is a native of Europe, Asia, and Africa. The kite is, by its forked tail, easily distinguished from the Buzzard. The former is...

Electrical Kite

Electrical Kite, a well-known machine, which was originally contrived to serve as a toy for children, but which has lately been applied to the more useful purpose of conducting- the electric matter of...

Knawell

Knawell, or Scleranthus, L. a genus of plants comprising three 6pecies, one of which is a native of Britain ; viz. the annus, Annual Knawell, or German Knot-grass, which grows in sandy soils and corn...

Knee-Holly

Knee-Holly, or Ruscus, L. a genus of plants, consisting of several species, one of which is indigenous, namely, the aculeatus, Common Knee-holly, Butchers'-Broom, or Prickly Pettigree. It...

Labdanum

Labdanum, or Ladanum, a resinous juice exuding from the Cistus creticus, L. a native of the Levant, whence it is imported. The best sort (which is extremely rare even in Turkey) consists of very dark-...

Labour

Labour, in a general sense, implies the exertion of human strength in the performance of any kind of work. The price of labour has, at all times, varied; and, as the poorer classes feel, with addit...

Laburnum

Laburnum, the Broad-leafed, Cytisus laburnum, L. a valuable exotic tree, introduced from the Alps, into the Highlands of Scotland. This plant is very hardy, and will thrive on poor shallow lands, a...

Lac

Lac, or Gum-lac, a species of wax, with which the Lac-insect, or Coccus Lacca, L. that frequents several species of the fig-tree, forms cells resembling the honey-combs of bees. Gum-lac has receive...

Lace

Lace, in commerce, a texture composed of several threads of gold, silver, silk, or thread, which are interwoven and worked on a cushion with spindles, according to the pattern designed. There are v...

Lacker

Lacker, or Lacquer, is a kind of varnish, applied to brass, tin, and other metals, in order to improve their colour, and to prevent them from tarnishing. The best lacquer is prepared from rectified...

Lacteals

Lacteals, in physiology, are the absorbing vessels of the mesen-try, and consist of certain small tubes, situated in the intestines; whence they convey the chyle, or that milky fluid which is generate...

Ladies'-Mantle

Ladies'-Mantle, or Alche-milla, L. a genus of plants comprising four species, three of which are indigenous, and of these, the principal is the vulgaris, or Common Ladies'-mantle, growing frequently i...

Ladies'-Smock

Ladies'-Smock, or Carda-mine, L. a genus of plants consisting of sixteen species, seven of which are indigenous : the principal of these is the pratensis, or Common Ladies'-Smock, growing in meadows a...

Lake

Lake, in geography, a collection of waters of a considerable extent, and having no immediate communication with the ocean. Lakes are divided into two classes: 1. Those, which contain fresh water; a...

Lamb

Lamb, the young of a sheep ; which, if a male, is during the first year, called a wedder, or wether-hog; and if a female, a sheave. The most proper time for ewes to lamb, is from the latter end of ...

Lameness

Lameness, a weakness that may arise from various causes, in any part of the body. Where this defect originates from natural deformity, it is generally incurable: few instances, however occur in whi...

Lamp

Lamp, a vessel containing oil, or other inflammable matter, for the purpose of affording light. The utility of lamps in domestic life, is universally acknowledged ; we shall, therefore, proceed to ...

Lamp-Black

Lamp-Black, is one of the black colouring matters, the preparation of which has already been stated, vol. ii. p. 35. We again introduce this sub-stance, as it possesses several remarkable propertie...

Lampas

Lampas, in Farriery, denotes an excrescence in the roof of a horse's mouth, which is some-times so luxuriant that it grows above the teeth, and thus prevents his feeding. This malady may be cured b...

Lamprey

Lamprey, or Petromyzon, L. a genus of fish comprising three species, which are chiefly distinguished by their peculiar back fins. 1. The marinus, or Sea Lamprey, which, in shape, resembles an eel...

Land

Land, in general, signifies any kind of ground, but is particularly applied to such as is ploughed, or tilled for agricultural purposes. As we treat, in alphabetical order, of the different methods...

Land-Ditching

Land-Ditching, or Hollow-draining, is practised ch ief-ly in the counties of Essex and Hertford. It consists in digging both main and side-drains, similar to those generally adopted in draining land :...

Language

Language, signifies the expression of our ideas, and their different relations, by means of articulate sounds. The acquisition of languages is an object of great importance. Without entering into a...

Lanthorn

Lanthorn, or Lantern, a well-known contrivance, which serves to carry a candle, without exposing it to the air, or otherwise incurring danger. Lanthorns are usually made of glass, horn, or other tr...

Lapwing

Lapwing, or Tringa Vanellus, L. a British bird, distinguished by its black bill, crown of the head, crest, and throat; red legs, black and white wings and tail: it is above 13 inches in length, and we...

Larch-Tree

Larch-Tree, or Pinus La-rix, L. one of the most valuable exotics, which was introduced into Britain from the Alps towards the end of the 17th century, and has been lately cultivated with particular at...

Lark

Lark, or Nauda, L. a genus of birds comprising twenty-eight species, of which the most remarkable are: 1. The arvensis, or Common Sky-laRk; a long-lived, and hardy bird, mounting high, raising its,...

Lark-Spur

Lark-Spur, or Delphinium, L. a genus of plants, consisting of 14 species, one of which only is indigenous; namely, the consolida, orWiid Lark-spur; Field Lark-spur, or Lark's-heel: it grows in cornfie...

Lath

Lath, in building, a long, thin, narrow slip of wood, which is nailed on the rafters of a roof, in order to support its covering. Laths are divided into three classes, according as they consist of ...

Lath-Bricks

Lath-Bricks are a particular kind of that article, made in the county of Stafford, and other parts of Britain : they are 22 inches in length, and 6 inches in breadth, being used as a substitute for la...

Lathe

Lathe, a very useful engine for turning wood, ivory, metals, and other hard substances. The invention of this instrument is of great antiquity, for, according to Virgil, the ancients availed themse...

Lavender

Lavender, or Lavandula, L, an exotic genus, of plants, comprising seven species; the principal of Which is the spica, Lavender-spike, or Common Lavender : it flowers in the month of July. This herb...

Lavender-Thrift

Lavender-Thrift, or Sea Lavender, Statice Limonium, L. an indigenous perennial plant,grow-jng on the sea-shore; in salt-marshes ; and the fissures or clefts of rocks, near the sea-coast: it is in flow...

Laughter

Laughter, a sudden and convulsive expression of mirth, pe-culiar to the countenance of man ; and which is occasioned by some object that surprizes the fancy. This emotion, however, more frequently ...

Laxatives

Laxatives, or Aperient Medicines, are such as promote a loose state or disposition of the bowels, for the more easy and regular evacuation of the feces. On account of the gradual effect which laxa...

Layers

Layers, in horticulture, denote certain tender shoots or sprigs of trees, which are buried or deposited in the ground, till they have taken root; when they are separated from the parent stock, and bec...

Lazaretto

Lazaretto, or Lazar-house, signifies a public building similar to a hospital; and which is intended for the reception of those who are infected with contagious distempers. It is also more particularly...

Lea

Lea, a measure used in some parts of England, to express a certain quantity of yarn.The statute 22 Car. II. directs a lea of yarn, at Kidderminster, to contain two hundred threads, on reels tha...

Lead

Lead, one of the imperfect metals, is of a dull white, inclining to a blue colour ; and, though the least ductile and sonorous, it is the heaviest of metallic bodies, excepting mercury, gold, and plat...

Lead-Wokt

Lead-Wokt, or Plum logo, L. a genus of exotic plants, consisting of four species ; the most remarkable of which is the Euro-paea : its root is perennial, strikes deep into the ground, and grows natura...

Leaf

Leaf, a distemper incident to lambs, when about a week or fortnight old.It has received this appellation ; as the creatures fee 1 on oak and hawthorn leaves, which cause them to foam at the mou...

Leather

Leather, the skins of various quadrupeds dressed in a particular manner, for the use of manufactures.See Currying and Tanning. Dyeing of Leather : Different colours may be imparted to leath...

Leaven

Leaven, strictly signifies sour dough, which acquires its acidity, when preserved after kneading flour with yeast, in order to ferment a larger quantity of paste. It is a Very imperfect substit...

Leaves

Leaves, in botany, are defined by Linnveus to be the organs of motion, or muscles of a plant : according to Dr. Darwin, they constitute the lungs of each individual bud.- See Bud. Leaves are of a d...

Leech

Leech, or Hirudo, L. a genus of insects comprising several species; the most remarkable of which are : 1. The medicinalis, or Medicinal Leech, from three to four inches in length; its body is of ...

Leek

Leek, or Allium porrum, L. a well-known vegetable, the native place of which is at present unknown, though it has long been cultivated in Britain. The leaves of this plant possess a flavour similar...

Leg

Leg, the lower extremity of animals, which serves both for their support and motion : it is generally divided into three parts ; 1. the thigh; 2. the leg, properly so called ; and, 3. the foot. The...

Lemon-Tree

Lemon-Tree, or Citrus Lima, L. an elegant evergreen, indigenous in Persia, rising from 5 to 10 feet in height, producing beautiful large leaves, with a profusion of sweet flowers in the spring and ear...

Lenitive E

Lenitive Electuary, a preparation kept in the apothecaries' shops, and consisting generally of two parts of pulverized senna ; one part of coriander seeds in powder, incorporated with four parts of th...

Lentil

Lentil, or Ervum Lens, L. an useful exotic vegetable of the pulse kind, that has long been cultivated in Britain. It is propagated from seeds, which are either sown in the proportion of from one bu...

Leopard's-Bane

Leopard's-Bane, or Doro-nicum, L. a genus of plants comprising seven species; the principal of which is the only indigenous one, termed Pardalianches, Great Leopard's-bane, or Wolf's-bane, growing on ...

German Leopard's-Bane

German Leopard's-Bane, or Arnica montana, L. an exotic plant growing wild on the Alps, and on the high mountains of Germany. This vegetable delights in a moist, shady situation : it may be propag...

Leprosy

Leprosy, or Lepra, a cutaneous disorder, in which the skin is rough, with white eschars resembling bran, though they are sometimes inoist beneath the surface, and accompanied with an intense itching. ...

Lethargy

Lethargy, or Lethargus, a species of apoplexy, which is manifested by an invincible drowsiness, or inclination to sleep, from which the patient is with difficulty awakened; and, if roused, he remains ...

Letter

Letter, in its primitive sense, denotes a character of which the alphabet is composed; but it is commonly used to signify a written address to an absent person. The term letter is often, though ironi-...

Lettuce

Lettuce, or Lactuca, L. a genus of plants comprising 15 species, two of which are natives of Britain : the principal of these is the virosa. Wild or strong-scented Lettuce, that abounds on chalky soil...

Level

Level, an instrument by means of which a line may be drawn parallel to the horizon, in order to determine the height of one place with respect to another; for laying grounds even, conducting water, r...

Lever

Lever, a bar made of iron or wood, one part of which is supported by a fulcrum or prop, so that all the others turn upon it as their common centre of motion. Levers are of various kinds, according ...

Lientery

Lientery, or Lienteria, is a species of diarrhoea, in which the food passes through the intestines, almost without having undergone any change it is not attended with pain, but the patient is frequen...

Life

Life, in a peculiar sense, denotes the animated state of living creatures, or that space of time during which the soul is united to the body. Longevity has always been highly estimated by man; henc...

Ligature

Ligature, a bandage or fillet, made of linen, flannel, leather, or any other elastic substance, which is generally tied round the arm, to facilitate the operation of blood-letting. Ligatures are li...

Light

Light, signifies that invisible fluid which renders objects perceptible to the sight.- The velocity of light is almost inconceivable, though its motion is not instantaneous : the particles of light fl...

Lightning

Lightning, a vivid, bright flash of fire, which suddenly appears in the atmosphere, and instantly, vanishes: it is sometimes attended with heavy clouds and thunder; but often occurs while the sky is s...

Lilac

Lilac, or Syringa, L. a genus of exotic plants, natives of Persia, consisting of three species, the principal of which is the vulgaris, or Common Lilac. It has long been cultivated in our gardens, on ...

Lily

Lily, or Lilium, L. a genus of exotic plants, consisting of ten species, all of which are remarkable, for the beauty of their flowers ; but the two following deserve a. distinguished place: ...

Lily-Of-The-Valley

Lily-Of-The-Valley, or May-Lily, Convallaria Majalis, L. an indigenous perennial plant, growing in woods, heaths, and at the foot of hills : it flourishes in the month of May. This vegetable is eat...

Water Lily

Water Lily, or Nym-phoea, L. a genus of plants comprising nine species, two of which are natives of Britain ; namely, 1. The lutea, Yellow Water-lily, or Watercan ; which grows in gentle river...

Lime

Lime, a white, soft, friable substance prepared of marble, chalk, or other calcareous earth, by burning them in a kiln. The chief uses of lime aire, 1. As an ingredient in mortar to cement brick o...

Lime-Grass

Lime-Grass, or Elymus, L. a genus of plants comprising twelve species, three of which are natives of Britain : the principal of these is the arenarius, or Upright Sea Lime-grass, which grows on the se...

Limes

Limes, the fruit of a variety of the Citron-tree (which see); growing abundantly in Jamaica, and other warm climates : it is the smallest production of the kind; has scarcely any pulp; but con-tains a...

Lime-Tree

Lime-Tree, or Tilia, L. a genus of trees consisting of seven species ; the principal or which is the Europaea, Common Lime-tree, or Linden-tree, growing in woods and hedges; flowering in the month of ...

Line

Line, for angling, a series of threads, or horse-hairs, twisted together, suspended on a rod, and furnished at the end with a hook for catching fish. The best material for making lines, is horse-ha...

Linen

Linen, a well known kind of cloth, made chiefly of Hemp and Flax.- Having already described the different processes which these substances undergo, before they are converted into cloth, we shall at p...

Liniment

Liniment; in Pharmacy, a composition, the consistence of which is of an intermediate nature, between unguents and oils: it is employed for anointing different parts of, the body.- The common preparati...

Linnet

Linnet, or Fringilla linota, L. is a very elegant bird, of which there are several varieties: it is of a small size, and a greyish-brown colour; the lower part of its breast is tinged with a line bloo...

Linseed

Linseed, or Lintseed, is the fruit of the Flax-plant, or Linum^ L. from the stalks of which, linen, cambric, and other sorts of clo:h are manufactured. According to the most experienced cultivators...

Lint

Lint, in surgery, signifies linen scraped so as to form a soft woolly substance, which is employed in dressing wounds. It is made into various forms, denominated according to the shape of which they c...

Lips

Lips, in anatomy, are the exterior edges or extremities of the mouth. Lips are subject to few disorders deserving notice, excepting that called the Hare-lip, in which the upper part of the mouth is...

Liquor

Liquor, a general name for any liquid preparation, but more particularly applied to such as are either fermented, or distilled : of the former class are, beer, ale, wine, etc. ;| of the latter, are br...

Liquorice

Liquorice, or Glycyrrhixa, L. a genus of exotic plants, comprising two species, the principal of which is the glabra, or Common Liquorice, Its long, thick, creeping roots strike several feet deep in t...

Literary Property

Literary Property, is that right which an author justly claims in his original literary compositions ; so that no person may, without his permission, either publish the work, or receive any profit fro...

Litharge

Litharge, or Lithargyrum, a preparation of lead, consisting of soft flakes of a yellowish or reddish colour. It is obtained by expoing calcined lead to a brisk fire, sufficiently strong to melt it...

Liver

Liver, the largest and most ponderous of the abdominal viscera, which, in adults, weighs about 3lb. It is situated under, and connected with the diaphragm, by means of the suspensory and other ligamen...

Liverwort

Liverwort, or Lichen, L. a genus of perennial plants, comprising 363 species, the greater number of which are natives of Britain ; - the most remarkable of these are: 1. The calcareus, Calcareous,...

Lixivium

Lixivium, or Ley, signifies a solution of salts or ashes in water, for the different purposes of bleaching, washing, dyeing, etc- Having, in the progress of this work, frequently employed the term lix...

Lizard

Lizard, or Lacerta, a genus of amphibious animals, consisting of several species; the most remarkable of which is the Agilis, or Common Green Lizard, a native of Britain. It is extremely nimble ; of a...

Loading Of Goods

Loading Of Goods, the act of removing ponderous substances, such as timber, corn, or other merchandize, to a cart or waggon. As various accidents happen by the removal of heavy goods, especially on...

Loam

Loam, in agriculture, a species of earth, less cohesive than clay, but more compact than chalk. There are several varieties of loam ; the most common of which we shall enumerate. 1. The cla...

Lobster

Lobster, or Cancer, L. a genus of insects comprising 20 species ; the principal of which is the grammarus, or Common Lobster : it has a smooth breast, four pair of legs, six joints in the tail, and ro...

Lock

Lock, a well-known contrivance for fastening doors, chests, or the likc ; and which is generally opened with a key. From the different structure of locks, adapted to various purposes, they acquire ...

Locking-Pole

Locking-Pole, an ingenious piece of mechanism, to be affixed to the wheels of waggons or other carriages, when descend-'ing steep hills. As many distressing accidents happen from carts over-powe...

Locust

Locust, or Gryllus Locusta, L. a family of insects, natives of Asia and Africa, where chiefly two species are remarkable, name-ly: 1. The Shielded Locust, so called from the pectinal shield c...

Log-Wood

Log-Wood, Heematoxyhtm Campechianum, L. an exotic plant, which grows wild in the bay of Campeachy, Honduras, and other parts of the Spanish West Indies, where it rises from 16 to 24 feet in height....

Longevity

Longevity has ever been a desirable object among the rational part of mankind; though the licentious epicure appears to measure the duration of his life by the good things he has enjoyed, rather than ...

Looking-Glass

Looking-Glass, a plain glass mirror; which, being rendered impervious to light, exhibits the images of such objects as are placed before it, apparently at the same distance behind. Looking - glass...

Loom

Loom, a machine, by means of which several distinct threads are combined into one piece, or contexture. Looms are of various forms, according to the different materials to be woven ; and the variou...

Loose-Strife

Creeping Loose-Strife, or Lysimachia nummularia, L. an indigenous, perennial plant, growing in moist, shady meadows ; and flowering in the months of June and July.This vegetable affords a whole...

Lottery

Lottery, a kind of public game at hazard, which, in this country, is managed by commissioners appointed by parliament. It consists of a certain number of tickets, that are drawn out of two different w...

Lovage

Lovage, on Ligusticum, L. a genus of plants, consisting of thirteen species, two of which are natives of Britain. The principal of these, is the Scoticum, Scottish Lovage, or Sea-parsley, growing on r...

Love

Love, generally speaking, denotes all those pleasing sensations which are excited by certain objects, or incidents. It, however, more frequently expresses that affection which consists of personal des...

Love-Apple

Love-Apple, or Solanum Ly-copersicum, L. a native of the East and West Indies, whence it has been introduced into our gardens. It is propagated from seeds, which are sown in the month of Ma...

Louse

Louse, in zoology, a genus of insects too well known to require any description. Lice are not peculiar to mankind, but infest quadrupeds, birds, fishes, and vegetables. Each class of animals is tro...

Louse-Wort

Louse-Wort, or Pedicularis, L. a genus of native perennial plants, comprising two species, viz. 1. The -palustris, or Marash Louse-wort, which grows in marshes, ditches, on moist meadows, and in ...

Lozenge

Lozenge, a form of various medicines moulded into small, flat takes, to be held or chewed in the mouth, till they are dissolved. As lozenges are of considerable utility for various purposes, we sha...

Lucern

Lucern, or Medicago saliva, L. a valuable exotic plant, which sometimes grows naturally in meadows, pastures, and on ditch-banks; flowers in the months of June and July.- It was introduced from France...

Lungs

Lungs, in anatomy, denote the two viscera or lobes in the cavity of the breast, by which we breathe. They are connected with the neck, and situated on the right and, left .side of the heart. Being fur...

Lunt

Lunt quarts of blood should be taken from the animal, on the first day; and four pints, on the succeeding morning. If the unfavourable symptoms do not abate, it will be necessary to draw blood repeate...

Lungwort

Lungwort, or Pulmonaria, L. a genus of perennial ;plants, comprising six species, three of which are natives of Britain : the principal of these is the officinalis, Common Lungwort, Spotted Lungwort, ...

Lupine

Lupine, or Lupinus, L. a genus of exotic plants comprising nine species, most of which are cultivated in gardens, on account of their beautiful flowers : they are raised from seed, which may be sown i...

Lute

Lute, a composition of certain viscid or tenacious matters, which becomes solid, when dry; and which, on being applied to the junctures of vessels, closes them 50 effectually as to prevent the admissi...

Luxation

Luxation, signifies the dislocation of any bone out of its natural articulation, so as to impede or destroy its proper motion. The general symptoms of this complaint are, inability to move the injured...

Luxury

Luxury denotes voluptuous- ness, or an extravagant indulgence in whatever pleases the senses, such as the articles of food, dress, and equipage. The utility or detriment of luxury: to a State, ...

Lymph

Lymph, a tasteless transparent liquid, that is absorbed from the surface; the cellular texture ; as well as the viscera and their cavities throughout the animal body: it is conveyed into the thoracic ...

Mace

Mace, the Inner coat of the Nutmeg, is a thin unctuous membrane, of a yellowish colour, which it acquires by being dried in the sun. It is imported from India in flakes, about an inch in length, which...

Madder

Madder, or Rubia, L. a genus of plants, comprising nine species, one of which is a natives of Britain, viz. the R. tinctorum, Wild, or Common Dyers-Madder. It is perennial, and flowers in the months o...

Madness

Madness, or Mania, one of the most distressing afflictions which humbles human nature. It is usually divided into two kinds, melancholy, and raving; but as they are so nearly allied to, and frequently...

Maggot

Maggot, the common name of the fly-worm generated in flesh, from the egg of the large blue flesh-fly, known under the name of blue-lottle. Its body is while and fleshy, destitute of legs or feet, and ...

Magistery

Magistery, a name given to almost every precipitate obtained by solution, as opposed to calx, which is procured wholly by calcination : it is chiefly employed to denote such precipitates as are used i...

Magnesia

Magnesia, or Magnesia alia, a kind of absorbent earth, first discovered in the commencement of the 18th century. When pure, it is extremely white, loose, and light, being infusible, as it resists the ...

Magnet

Magnet, or Loadstone, a kind of ferruginous stone, which in weight and colour resembles iron ore, though it is somewhat harder and more ponderous. It is occasionally discovered In iron mines, being so...

Magnetism

Magnetism, Animal, a Sympathy which was lately believed to subsist between the magnet and the human body ; and, in consequence of which, the former was Supposed to be capable of curing almost every di...

Magpye

Magpye, or Corvus pica, L. a crafty, and well-known British bird, which is about 18 inches in length, and weighs from eight to nine ounces. It has a black bill, wings, and tail; but the latter are var...

Mahogany

Mahogany, or Swietenia, L. an exotic tree growing wild in South America, and likewise in the islands of Cuba, Jamaica, Hispaniola, and in those of Bahama. It was formerly very common in Jamaica ; when...

Maiden-Hair

Common Maiden-Hair, Miltwaste, or Spleenwort, Asplenium Trichomanes, L. an indigenous perennial plant, growing on old walls, rocks, and shady, stony places; flowering from May to October.Its le...

Maize

Maize, Guinea-wheat, or Indian Corn, Zea Mays, L. a native of North America, where it is cultivated to a considerable extent, and forms an important article of food. Maize is propagated by setting ...

Mallow

Mallow, or Malva, L.a genus of plants consisting of 53 species, four of which are natives of Britain : the principal of the latter is the syIvestris, Common Mallow, or Mauls, growing in hedges, foot-p...

Malt

Malt, denotes barley prepared for brewing, so as to produce, by fermentation, a potable liquor, known under the different names of Beer, Ale, and Porter. The operation of malting is performed by st...

Man

Man, the chief of the animated world, is distinguished from all living creatures by his superior faculties ; being possessed of reflection, thought, a power of invention, and an ability of carrying hi...

Mandrake

Mandrake, or Atropa man-dragora, L. an exotic plant, growing in Spain, Portugal, Italy, and the Levant: it is propagated by seeds, and treated in a similar manner with the more tender exotic plants.&#...

Manganese

Manganese, or Magnesia nigra, a dark-coloured native mineral, found in a more or less impure state, both in iron-mines, and in the lead-mines of Mendip-hills, in the county of Somerset. Common mang...

Mange

Mange, a disease affecting dogs and swine, in a manner similar to the itch in the human body ; and arising from an insect that works its way beneath the uppermost skin ; where it causes so great an ir...

Mangel-Wurzel

Mangel-Wurzel, or Root of Scarcity, the Beta albissima, L. is an exotic variety of the Beta Cicla. It is propagated from seeds, one or two of which are deposited, in the month of April or May, in hole...

Mangle

Mangle, a valuable domestic machine, employed for the purpose of smoothing such linen as cannot be conveniently ironed. Various patents have been granted for improvements in this machinery : but, a...

Mango-Tree

Mango-Tree, or Mango floral, a native of the East Indies, whence its unripe fruit, preserved in vinegar, is imported under the name of mangoes. This lofty tree attains a considerable size: its frui...

Manna

Manna, the juice obtained from several species of ash, pani-cularly the Fraxinus rotundifolia and Ornus, growing in Italy and Sicily. When naturally concreted on the tree, this juice is called manna i...

Manslaughter

Manslaughter, a species of homicide, denotes the unlawful killing of another, without any malice, either express or implied : it may be perpetrated either voluntarily, in consequence of a sudden dispu...

Manufacture

Manufacture, signifies a commodity, or piece of workmanship, produced from raw materials, whether by hand, or by the aid of machinery. The extensive utility of manufactures to a commercial nation, ...

Manuscript

Manuscript, signifies a book or paper written by hand, as opposed to those which are printed. Having already pointed out, in the article Deed, the most easy method of restoring written characters t...

Maple-Tree

Maple-Tree, or Acer, L. a genus of plants, comprising twenty species, of which the following are the principal, viz. The campestris, or Common Maple, which is a native of Britain, grows in thickets...

Marble

Marble, in Natural History, a genus of stones that admit of a bright and beautiful polish: they are composed of small separate concretions, moderately hard ; not emitting fire, when stricken against s...

Mare

Mare, the female of the horse kind. Having already stated under the article Horse, the proper management of mares, considered as beasts of labour, we shall at present give a few hints relative to t...

Mare's-Tail

Mare's-Tail, the Common, or Hippuris vulgaris, Lan indigenous perennial plant, growing in ditches and stagnant waters ; it flowers in the month of May. This weakly astringent vegetable is eaten b...

Marjoram

Marjoram, or Origanum, L. a genus ofperennial plants, compris- ing 14 species : of these, one only is indigenous, namely, the vulgare, Common, Wild, or Field Marjoram, which grows in thickets and hed...

Market

Market, a public place in a city or town, where live cattle, provisions, or other commodities are exposed to sale. - In the country, each article sold in markets must be deposited in the usual pl...

Marle

Marle, a kind of calcareous earth, which is often and advantageously employed as a manure. It is found in various parts of Britain, and generally lies at the bottom of low bogs. Marie is divided in...

Marriage

Marriage, a contract both civi1 and religious between a man and a woman, by which they engage to live together in mutual friendship, and love, during the remainde of their days. ...

Marrow

Marrow, in animal economy, an oily matter secreted by the arteries of the internal membrane, which covers the bones. Its particular use, to the living body, has not hitherto been clearly ascertained ;...

Marsh

Marsh, signifies a tract of ground partly covered with water, yet so as to permit grass or other vegetables to rise above its surface: these, while gradually decaying, occasion putrid exhalations, whi...

Marsh-Locks

Marsh-Locks, the Purple, or Marsh Cinquefoil, Com Arum Palustre, L. an indigenous perennial plant, growing in muddy and putrid marshes; flowering in the months of June or July; and producing red berri...

Marsh-Mallow

Marsh-Mallow, or Althaea officinalis, L. an indigenous perennial plant, growing in salt-marshes and on the banks of rivers; flowering in the month of August. This useful plant may be easily propagated...

Marsh - Marigold

Marsh - Marigold, or Meadow-bouts; Caltha palus-tris, L. an indigenous perennial plant, thriving in moist meadows, and on the banks of rivers: it flowers in the months of April and May. This, hardy...

Martin

Martin, or Hirundo urlica, L. a well known bird of passage, which makes its annual appearance in Britain, from the beginning of April to the middle of May, according to the state of the weather.—...

Mary Gold

Mary Gold, the Trifid Bur, Trifid Double-tooth, Water-hemP, or Hemp-agrimony ; Bi-dens triparlita, L. an indigenous annual plant, growing in marshy and watery places, and flowering in the months of Au...

Mash

Mash, a drink given to horses. - It is prepared by infusing half a peck of ground malt in a sufficient quantity of boiling water, then agitating the liquor, till it acquires a sweet taste, and when lu...

Masterwort

Masterwort, the Common, or Imperatoria Ostruthium, L. is an indigenous, perennial plant growing in damp meadows, and flowering in the month of June. It is cultivated in gardens, on account of its m...

Mastic

Mastic, or Mastich, the Syrian Herb, or Marum Germander, Ttucrium Marum, L. 3 native of warm climates, and which we have incidentally mentioned, p. 369 of our second volume. Its leaves, distilled with...

Mastication

Mastication, the act of chewing or grinding the solid parts of food between the teeth, by the united motion of the jaws, tongue, and lips; in consequence of which it is broken into small pieces, mixed...

Mastich

Mastich, a resinous substance exuding from the mastich-tree, or Pistacia lentiscus, L. a native of the southern parts of Europe. The best is imported from Chios, in the Levant, in small transparent gr...

Masticot

Masticot, or Yellow Lead, is the calx or ashes of lead, obtained by slow calcination, in consequence of which that metal acquires a lighter or deeper yellow colour, according to the degree of heat. &...

Mastiff

Mastiff, Canis villaticus, v. catenarius, L. a valuable species of the dog-kind. This bold animal is alike remarkable for his loud voice in barking, his extraordinary size, and surprizing strength....

Matching

Matching, a method of preparing vessels for the preservation of wines, cyder, or similar liquors, from becoming sour. It is effected in the following manner : Let any quantity of sulphur be melted in ...

Matlock Waters

Matlock Waters, are those mineral springs which issue from the limestone-hill or rock,on which the village of Matlock, in Derbyshire, is situated. They are remarkable for their purity; and are both co...

Matweed

Matweed, the Sea, Helme, Sea-reed, or Marram, arunda arenaria, L. an indigenous perennial plant, growing only on the driest sandy shores, and flowering in the month of June or July. This useful reed p...

Maze

Maze, or Labyrinth, in Gardening, denotes a piece of ground, planted and arranged in various meanders, so as to render it difficult, after entering the walks, to find the leading avenue. Labyrinths...

Mead

Mead, an agreeable liquor prepared of honey and water, with the addition of spices. Various methods are practised in the brewing of mead ; which, however, do not essentially differ from each other:...

Meadow

Meadow, generally signifies pasture, or grass land, that is annually mown for hay ; but it more particularly denotes such traces of ground as are too low, and too moist for cattle to graze on them dur...

Meadow-Grass

Meadow-Grass, or Poa, L. a genus of plants comprising 53 species, 16 of which are natives of Britain : the principal of these are: 1. The aquatica, or Reed Meadow-grass, growing in marshes and on ...

Meadow - Saffron

Meadow - Saffron, or Tuberoot, Colchicum autumnale, L. an indigenous perennial plant, being the principal of three species ; growing in meadows; flowering in the months of August 3nd September. The...

Meadow-Sweet

Meadow-Sweet, the Common, or Quee-of-the-mea-dows, Spircea ulmaria, L. an indigenous perennial plant, growing in moist meadows and on the banks of rivers ; flowering in the months of June and July. It...

Measles

Measles, or Rubeola, a contagious disease, accompanied with inflammatory fever, sneezing, de-fluxion of a thin humour from the eyes, and a dry hoarse cough.-On the fourth day, or sometimes later, sma!...

Measure

Measure, in a legal and commercial sense, denotes a certain proportion or quantity of any commodity, whether dry or liquid, that is bought, sold, valued, etc. Measures vary according to the lent ki...

Meat

Meat, a general appellation for the flesh of animals when prepared for food..As we have already, under the article Flesh-meat, given the most, effectual methods of preserving it in a fresh stat...

Medicine

Medicine, is the art of preventing, curing, or alleviating those diseases, with which mankind are afflicted. The history of medicine is lost in the remotest antiquity ; and the researches of the mo...

Medick

Medick, or Medicago, L. a genus of perennial plants, comprising twelve species ; the principal of which are the following : 1. The sativa. See LUCERN. 2. The falcata, Yellow Me-dick, ...

Medlar-Tree

Medlar-Tree, the Common, or Mespilus germanica, L. a native of Britain, growing in hedges, and flowering in the month of May. This hardy shrub is cultivated in gardens, either for the sake of its f...

Melancholy

Melancholy, or partial insanity without any affection of the stomach, is one of those humiliating diseases which are peculiar to mankind. Innumerable are the causes which may induce this most dread...

Melic-Grass

Melic-Grass, or Melica, L. a genus of perennial plants, comprising 14 species, of which the following are the principal: 1. The nutans, or Mountain Melic-grass, which abounds in the mountainous woo...

Melilot

Melilot, the Common, Melilot-trefoil, King's-claver, or Harts-clover, Trifolium Me-lilotus officinalis, L. an indigenous plant, growing on a stiff soil; on ditch banks ; in thickets, hedges ; corn-fie...

Melon

Common Melon, or Musk-Melon, Cucumis me/o, L. an exotic plant growing wild in Asia, whence it has been introduced into the south of Europe, and is also cultivated in Britain, on account of its delicio...

Memorandum

Memorandum, a term implying a note, or mark, made either on paper or otherwise, with a view to assist the memory. In the present artificial state of society, the convenience of a memorandum-book is...

Memory

Memory, a mental faculty, which consists in the power of reviving former impressions of our ideas, or the particular circumstances which occasioned and accompanied them. Memory may be divided into ...

Menstruum

Menstruum, in general, signifies all liquors employed as solvents of other bodies, with the minute particles of which the former combine, so as to produce a new, uniform compound : they are chiefly us...

Mercury

Mercury, or Quicksilver Hydrargyrus ), a mineral fluid, about fourteen or fifteen times heavier than water: it is so remarkably thin, that it requires the intense cold of 40 degrees below O, of Fahre...

Mesentery

Mesentery, in animal economy, signifies that fat membrane, or membranous duplicature, which is situated in the middle of the abdomen, for preventing the intestines from entangling with each other, as ...

Metal

Metal, signifies a ponderous, opaque body, which, in general, is fusible by fire 5 but, when cold, coagulates and concretes into a solid mass, that is capable of being distended under the hammer.̵...

Mezereon

Mezereon, Spurge-olive, Spurge-flax, or Dwarf-baY, Daphne Mexereum, L. an indigenous low shrub, growing in woods and shady places, and flowering in the month of February or March. When cultivated in g...

Mica

Mica, Muscovy-glass, Glimmer, or Glist, a genus of mag-nesian earths, of which there are two species ; viz. 1. The colorala martialis, coloured martial glimmer, of which there are many varieties,...

Microscope

Microscope, an optical instrument, consisting of lenses or mirrors, by means of which, small objects appear of a larger size, than they naturally are to the naked eye. This valuable instrument, tho...

Midwifery

Midwifery, or the obstetrical art, a branch of mediciue which requires no farther definition.In most countries of Europe, and in other parts of the globe, it is prac-1 by women ; for it compreh...

Mildew

Mildew, or Erysiphile, a disease of plants, consisting of a thick, clammy, sweetish juice, that is supposed to exhale from, or descend on, the leaves and blossoms of vegetables. The mildew occurs m...

Miliary Fever

Miliary Fever, or Miliaria, a disease which affects both sexe6, at every age, but particularly recluse and sedentary women. It is accompanied with continued fever, anxiety, a sensation of punctures in...

Milk

Milk, a well-known, nutritious fluid, with which Nature has wisely furnished the breasts of females, and the udders of animals, for the support of their young. Milk consists of three parts, namely ...

Milk-House

Milk-House, a building designed for the reception and preservation of milk, previously to its, undergoing the various processes of the dairy. As we have already, under the head of Dairy-house, trea...

Milk-Thistle

Milk-Thistle, or Ladies Th istle, Carduus marianus, L. an indigenous plant, growing on ditch-banks, road-sides, the borders of corn-fields, and on rubbish: it flowers in the month of August. ...

Milk-Vetch

Milk-Vetch, or Astragalus, L..a genus of indigenous, perennial plants, consisting of 80 species ; the principal of which is the glycyphyl-los, Common or Sweet Miik-vetch, Liquorice-vetch, Wild-liquori...

Milk-Weed

Milk-Weed, the Marsh, Wild Parsley, or Wild Milky Parsley, Selinum palustre, L. an indigenous perennial plant, growing in damp and marshy situations, where its stalk attains the height of three or fou...

Milk-Wort

Milk-Wort, the COMMON, or Polygala vulgaris, L. an indigenous perennial plant, thriving on heaths and dry pastures ; flowering in the months of June and July.This herb is eaten by cows, the mil...

Mill

Mill, a machine for grinding corn, etc. of which there are various kinds, according to the different methods of applying the moving power ; such as water-mills, those worked by horses, wind-mills, etc...

Mill-Reek

Mill-Reek, a dreadful disease, caused by the poisonous fumes of melted lead, which affect not only those who are employed in the smelting or preparing of that metal, but likewise all who reside near t...

Mill-Stone

Mill-Stone, signifies the large circular stone, by means of which, when put in motion by machinery, corn is ground into flour. The diameter of the common mill-stones is, in general, from five to se...

Millet

Millet, or Milium, L. a genus of plants, consisting of five species ; of which the following are the principal; namely : 1. The panicum, or Common Millet; which is a native of India, and seldom cul...

Mineral Kingdom

Mineral Kingdom, an expression comprising all bodies that are dug out of subterraneous places, or mines, being totally inanimate, and devoid of the power of vegetation. From the preceding definitio...

Mineral Waters

Mineral Waters, include all such fluids as are naturally impregnated with heterogeneous matter, which they have dissolved within the bowels of the earth, whether sulphureous, metallic, or saline; and,...

Mint

Mint, or Mentha, L. a genus of plants comprising 24 species, 12 being natives of Britain ; of which the following are the principal: 1. The Pulegium : See Pennyroyal. 2. The Arvensis, or...

Misseltoe

Misseltoe, the Common, White Misseltoe, or Missel; Vis-cuni album, L. a parasitical plant growing on Apple and Pear-trees, the Hawthorn, Service, Oak, Maple, etc.; flowering in the month, of May. F...

Mite

Mite, or Acarus, L. a genus of insects, consisting of 35 species, the principal of which is the Asiro, Common, or Cheese-mite. It is very small, and when first hatched, is so extremely minute as to be...

Mitridate-Mustard

Mitridate-Mustard, or BASTARD-CREss, Thlaspi, L. a genius of plants comprising fourteen species, six of which are na-tives of Britain : the principal of these is the arvense, Smooth Mi-thridate -Musta...

Moffat-Waters

Moffat-Waters, are those sulphureoas springs winch issue from a rock, in the vicinity of the village of Moffat, North-Britain.-The smell of this water corresponds with that of Harrogate ; its taste is...

Moisture

Moisture denotes a property peculiar to certain bodies that absorb humidity from the atmosphere; such are, sugar, salt, sponge, etc. but which again exhale the watery particles, when exposed to a drie...

Molasses

Molasses, or MeLasses, the gross fluid matter, which remains after refining sugar; and which cannot by simple boiling be reduced to a more solid consistence than that of common syrup, vulgarly called ...

Mole

Mole, or TaLpa, L. a genus of quadrupeds, consisting of seven species, of which the Europaeus, or European Mole, only is found in Britain. It abounds in all parts of Europe, excepting Ireland. This...

Mole-Cricket

Mole-Cricket, or Gryllus gryllo-talpa, L. a destructive insect, in the vicinity of rivers, infesting moist meadows, and gardens, in which it does great injury to the plants and roots ; destroying whol...

Molten-Grease

Molten-Grease, a disorder in horses, consisting of a fat or oily discharge with the faeces : it arises from a colliquation or melting down of the animal's fat, in consequence of violent exercise in ve...

Molybdoena

Molybdoena, a mineral that is frequently confounded with black-lead ; though possessing properties widely different from the latter -It is of a laminated texture, or formed of plates which slightly co...

Money

Money, a piece of metal, which by public authority bears a certain weight and value, so that it may serve as a circulating medium in commerce. Money is, in general, divided into two kinds, viz. ima...

Moon

Moon, in astronomy, one of the heavenly bodies, usually, though erroneously, classed among the planets ; for it is with more propriety considered as a satellite, or secondary planet. The mean dista...

Moor

Moor, or Moor-Land, a black, light, soft soil, remarkably loose, without any admixture of stones, and containing a very small pro-portion of clay, or sand. This earth usually forms the uppermost st...

Mordants

Mordants, or Mordicants, in dyeing, signify those substances, which are employed for the purpose of macerating the stuffs, and rendering them capable of imbibing the tinging matter. Of this nature are...

Morocco-Leather

Morocco-Leather, the skins of goats tanned and dyed in a peculiar manner by the Turks , but which processes were originally invented in the kingdom of Morocco. The skins are prepared in parcels, co...

Mortar

Mortar, a preparation of lime and sand, mixed with water: it serves as a cement, and is employ ed by masons and bricklayers In erecting walls, houses, etc. Mortar being an article of extensive utility...

Mortification

Mortification, or Sphacelus, in the animal economy, is generally defined to be a total extinction of the natural heat of the body, or rather of a particular part; in consequence of inflammation. Un...

Moschatel

Moschatel, the Tuberous, or Adoxa Moschateklina,L. an indigenous perennial plant, growing in damp woods, and shady, places where it flowers in the months of April and May.- The ripe fruit of this low ...

Moss

Moss, in Botany, a term for a numerous family of plants, which may be called the dwarfs of the table kingdom. Mosses were formerly supposed to be a mere excrescence from the earth, and trees, yet t...

Moss In Horticulture

Moss In Horticulture, in horticulture, is a disease which greatly impedes the growth of trees, and at the same time very materially injures the fruit of orchards. The remedy usually employed 5s, to...

Marsh Moss

Marsh Moss, or Mnium, L. a genus of perennial plants, comprising 32 species, most of which are natives of Britain.The following only deserves to be mentioned, namely, the fontanum, or Fountain ...

Moss-Land

Moss-Land, an expression used in Scotland, and also in various parts of England, for denoting what is more properly called a Morass, Bog, or Fen. The theory of mosses is foreign to our plan ; and a...

Moss-Rush

Moss-Rush, or GhoosecorN, Junius squarrosus, L. a native perennial plant, growing on heaths and barren turfy bogs flowering in the months of June and July. This vegetable indicates a la\ wil...

Moth

Moth, or Phaleana, a genus of insects comprehending several hundred species which it would be needless to enumerat they are uniformly bred from eggs and no socner hatched than they in which t...