Ergot(n.) A diseased condition of rye and other cereals, in which the grains become black, and often spur-shaped. It is caused by a parasitic fungus, Claviceps purpurea.
Ergot(n.) The mycelium or spawn of this fungus infecting grains of rye and wheat. It is a powerful remedial agent, and also a dangerous poison, and is used as a means of hastening childbirth, and to arrest bleeding.
Ergot(n.) A stub, like soft horn, about the size of a chestnut, situated behind and below the pastern joint.
Ergot(n.) See 2d Calcar, 3 (b).
Ergotic(a.) Pertaining to, or derived from, ergot; as, ergotic acid.
Ergotism(n.) A logical deduction.
Ergotism(n.) A diseased condition produced by eating rye affected with the ergot fungus.
Ergotized(a.) Affected with the ergot fungus; as, ergotized rye.
Words within ergotize