carminative

Meanings

1. 1
   adj

   Relieving the discomfort of gas in the digestive tract, either by reducing its production (by the gut microbiota) or by inducing its expulsion (whether as belches [upper GI action] or as flatus [lower GI action]).

   If too much milke be the cauſe, then the Nurſe ſhall not give the childe ſucke ſo often, nor in ſuch plenty: If it proceed from wind, and that doe cauſe the childe to be thus troubled, it ſhall be diſcuſſed with Fomentations applied to the belly and navell; and with Carminative Cliſters, which ſhall bee given him, […].

2. 2
   noun

   A drug or substance that relieves the discomfort of gas in the digestive tract, either by reducing its production (by the gut microbiota) or by inducing its expulsion (whether as belches [upper GI action] or as flatus [lower GI action]).

   “A mental carminative,” said Mr. Scogan reflectively. “That's what you need.”.

3. 3
   adj

   relieving gas in the alimentary tract (colic or flatulence or griping)

4. 4
   noun

   medication that prevents the formation of gas in the alimentary tract or eases its passing

From Latin carminō (“to card, hence to cleanse”), from carmen (“a card for freeing wool or flax from the coarser parts, and from extraneous matter”).

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