First Known Use: 15th century
Dictionary
calamine
noun cal·a·mine \ˈka-lə-ˌmīn, -mən\
: a pink liquid that is used to treat skin that is sore, itchy, sunburned, etc.
Full Definition of CALAMINE
: a mixture of zinc oxide with a small amount of ferric oxide used in lotions, liniments, and ointments
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Origin of CALAMINE
Middle English calamyn ore of zinc, from Medieval Latin calamina, alteration of Latin cadmia — more at cadmium
CALAMINE Defined for Kids
calamine
noun cal·a·mine \ˈka-lə-ˌmīn\
Definition of CALAMINE for Kids
: a skin lotion used especially to reduce itching (as from an insect bite or poison ivy)
Medical Dictionary
calamine
noun cal·a·mine \ˈkal-ə-ˌmīn, -mən\
Medical Definition of CALAMINE
: a mixture of zinc oxide or zinc carbonate with a small amount of ferric oxide that is used in lotions, liniments, and ointments
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