Definition, Meaning & Synonyms
calomel
noun
/ˈkæl.ə.mɛl/
Definition
Calomel is a white powder that is a compound of mercury and chlorine, historically used as a medicine.
Examples
- Calomel was often used in the 19th century for its supposed health benefits.
- Doctors prescribed calomel as a remedy for constipation.
Meaning
The term calomel refers to mercurous chloride (Hg2Cl2), which was once a common treatment for various ailments.
Synonyms
- Mercurous chloride
- Mercury(I) chloride
