Middle English Dictionary Entry
solū̆tī̆f adj.
Entry Info
| Forms | solū̆tī̆f adj. |
| Etymology | OF solutif; also cp. ML solūtīvus. |
Definitions (Senses and Subsenses)
1.
Having softening or dissolving power; also, laxative [1st quot.].
Associated quotations
- ?a1425 *Chauliac(1) (NY 12)158a/b : Forsoþ medicyne solutif of [Ch.(2): þat louseth] þe wombe [L ventris solutiva]..giffeþ most helpyng to conseruacioun of helth.
- a1450 Diseases Women(2) (Sln 2463)74 : This emplaster solutyf, yef it be layd on a womannys schare, it deliuereth a dede chyld, oþer of ony other best þer ybredde, & yf it be leyd on þe stomak it makith her to spewe, And yf it be leid on þe wombe it makith her to go to prevy.
Supplemental Materials (draft)
- a1484 De Retard.Senect.(Trin-C R.14.52)166/467 : The vertu of solutives workith more without the body than with the body.
Note: Ed.: "solutives n. pl. 'laxative medicines'."
Note: Postdates word.