vesicant

noun

ves·​i·​cant ˈve-si-kənt How to pronounce vesicant (audio)
: an agent (such as a chemical weapon) that induces blistering
vesicant adjective

Examples of vesicant in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Historically, cantharidin was used as an aphrodisiac, vesicant and abortifacient. Seriously Science, Discover Magazine, 8 Sep. 2017

Word History

Etymology

Latin vesica bladder, blister

First Known Use

1661, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of vesicant was in 1661

Dictionary Entries Near vesicant

Cite this Entry

“Vesicant.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/vesicant. Accessed 23 Dec. 2024.

Medical Definition

vesicant

1 of 2 noun
ves·​i·​cant ˈves-i-kənt How to pronounce vesicant (audio)
: an agent (such as a drug or a chemical weapon) that induces blistering

vesicant

2 of 2 adjective
: producing or tending to produce blisters
vesicant chemotherapy drugs
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