American Dictionary of the English Language, Vol. 1
Contents:
Ampelite
AM’PELITE, n. [Gr. a vine. The name of an earth used to kill worms on vines. Pliny says it is like bitumen.
Cannel coal, or candle coal; an inflammable substance of a black color, compact texture, and resinous luster, and sufficiently hard to be cut and polished. It burns with a bright flame, of a short duration; and gives but a moderate heat. It is used like jet for making toys. It is found in France and England, where husbandmen smear vines with it to kill vermin.
Contents: |