eaglestone en · NOUN
Pronunciation
- /ˈiːɡl̩stəʊn/ (UK)
Etymology
From eagle + stone, because it was said to be found in eagles' nests.
Meanings
-
A concretionary nodule of iron oxide with a loose kernel inside such that it makes a rattling noise, formerly used for magical or medicinal purposes.
There was the eagle-stone (aetites) which the Countess of Newcastle was invited to wear in 1633 to ease her labour pains […].
1971, Keith Thomas, Religion and the Decline of Magic, Folio Society, published 2012, page 183:
Forms
| Spelling | Features | Labels | Source |
|---|---|---|---|
| eagle-stone | alternative | lexicographic | |
| eagle stone | alternative | lexicographic | |
| eaglestones | Number=Plur | lexicographic |
Synonyms
Translations (2)
pt pedra de águia (concretionary nodule of iron oxide with a loose kernel inside formerly used for magical or medicinal purposes) · la callimus (concretionary nodule of iron oxide with a loose kernel inside formerly used for magical or medicinal purposes)