eaglestone

English

Alternative forms

  • eagle stone, eagle-stone

Etymology

From eagle + stone, because it was said to be found in eagles' nests.

Pronunciation

  • (UK) IPA(key): /ˈiːɡl̩stəʊn/

Noun

eaglestone (plural eaglestones)

  1. 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.
    • 1971, Keith Thomas, Religion and the Decline of Magic, Folio Society 2012, p. 183:
      There was the eagle-stone (aetites) which the Countess of Newcastle was invited to wear in 1633 to ease her labour pains […].

Synonyms

Translations

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