ammoniac etymology

Etymology of Ammoniac

The word "ammoniac" derives ultimately from the Greek word ἀμμωνιακόν (ammonia-), referring to a gum-resin obtained from the ammoniacum plant. The plant was named after the Egyptian god Ammon, who was often depicted with the head of a ram.

The Greeks and Romans believed that the gum-resin from the ammoniacum plant could be used to treat respiratory ailments, hence the association with Ammon, who was also associated with the sun and healing.

Meaning of Ammoniac

Ammoniac refers to:

  • The gas ammonia (NH3), a compound of nitrogen and hydrogen.
  • Any salt or compound containing the ammonium ion (NH4+).
  • A gum-resin obtained from the ammoniacum plant.

Origin of Ammoniac

The ammoniacum plant is native to the Middle East and Central Asia. The gum-resin was known and traded in ancient times and was used in traditional medicine and as a source of incense.

Historical uses of ammoniac: * In ancient Egypt, ammoniac was used as a medicine for treating respiratory problems and as a source of incense. * In ancient Greece and Rome, ammoniac was used as a medicine for respiratory ailments, indigestion, and as a stimulant. * In the Middle Ages, ammoniac was used in alchemy and as a cleaning agent.

Modern uses of ammoniac: * In industry, ammoniac is used to produce fertilizers, plastics, and explosives. * In household cleaning, ammoniac is used as a disinfectant and a degreaser.

ammoniac relate terms

  • Ammon

    Etymology The name Ammon is derived from the Ancient Egyptian word Amun which means

  • ammonia

    Etymology The word ammonia is derived from the Latin word ammoniacum which is itself

  • ammonia

    Etymology The word ammonia is derived from the Latin word ammoniacum which is itself

  • Ammon

    Etymology The name Ammon is derived from the Ancient Egyptian word Amun which means

  • ammoniac

  • avarice

    Etymology French avarice Medieval Latin avaritia Latin avēre to have or desire

  • dispatch

    Etymology Middle English despachen Old French despacher Late Latin dispedicare Latin

  • solstice

    Etymology The word solstice is derived from the Latin word solstitium which means s

  • carbohydrate

  • inspiration

    Etymology Latin inspiro in in spirare to breathe Proto Indo European spe

  • echo

    Etymology The word echo comes from the Greek êkhô which means a sound that is re