geophagy

noun

ge·​oph·​a·​gy jē-ˈä-fə-jē 

: the practice of eating earthy substances (such as clay) that in humans is performed especially to augment a scanty or mineral-deficient diet or as part of a cultural tradition compare pica entry 1

Examples of geophagy in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

In fact, geophagy, or intentionally consuming dirt, has been documented in multiple historical and present-day cultures, many of which ingest specific soils medicinally to prevent diarrhea or increase iron intake. —Gemma Tarlach, Discover Magazine, 15 Mar. 2018

But a geophagy contract was made and must be enforced: one teaspoonful of dirt goes into your lying stomach by way of mouth. —John Hodgman, New York Times, 28 Apr. 2017

Word History

Etymology

International Scientific Vocabulary

First Known Use

1850, in the meaning defined above

Medical Definition

geophagy

noun

ge·​oph·​a·​gy -ə-jē- 

plural geophagies

: the practice of eating earthy substances (as clay) that in humans is performed especially to augment a scanty or mineral-deficient diet or as part of a cultural tradition

called also earth eating

compare pica