Dictionary
1pestle
noun pes·tle \ˈpe-səl, ˈpes-təl\
: a hard tool with a rounded end that is used for pounding or crushing substances (such as medicines) in a deep bowl (called a mortar)
Full Definition of PESTLE
1
: a usually club-shaped implement for pounding or grinding substances in a mortar — see mortar illustration
2
: any of various devices for pounding, stamping, or pressing
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Illustration of PESTLE
Origin of PESTLE
Middle English pestel, from Anglo-French, from Latin pistillum, from pinsere to pound, crush; akin to Greek ptissein to crush, Sanskrit pinaṣṭi he pounds
First Known Use: 14th century
Other Pharmacology Terms
2pestle
verb
pes·tledpes·tling \ˈpe-s(ə-)liŋ, ˈpes-təl-iŋ\
Definition of PESTLE
transitive verb
archaic : to beat, pound, or pulverize with or as if with a pestle
intransitive verb
: to work with a pestle : use a pestle
First Known Use of PESTLE
15th century
Other Pharmacology Terms
PESTLE[1] Defined for Kids
pestle
noun pes·tle \ˈpe-səl\
Definition of PESTLE for Kids
: a tool shaped like a small club for crushing substances in a mortar
Medical Dictionary
pestle
noun pes·tle \ˈpes-əl also ˈpes-təl\
Medical Definition of PESTLE
: a usually club-shaped implement for pounding or grinding substances in a mortar
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