When you say 'vitriol' are you speaking Latin?

'Vitriol' is a word borrowed from Latin 'vitriolus'. The word entered the English language some time around the 14th century.

vitriol [noun] [14th century]

• a sulfate of any of various metals (as copper, iron, or zinc)
• a glassy hydrate of such a sulfate
• oil of vitriol
• something felt to resemble vitriol especially in caustic quality

Meaning: a sulfate of any of various metals (as copper; iron; or zinc); a glassy hydrate of such a sulfate; oil of vitriol.

Etymology: Middle English; from Anglo-French vitriole; from Medieval Latin vitriolum; alteration of Late Latin vitreolum; neuter of vitreolus glassy; from Latin vitreus vitreous.

Topics: Science:Chemistry.

Origin: From Latin to English.

See 'vitriol' on the Loan Words Map

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