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Webster’s Dictionary (1828)



1,027 words match “ORIGIN”

MACASSAR OIL n.
A kind of oil formerly used in dressing the hair; -- so called because originally obtained from Macassar, a district of the Island of Celebes. Also, an imitation of the same, of perfumed castor oil and olive oil.
MALKIN n.
Originally, a kitchenmaid; a slattern. Chaucer.
MALTESE a.
- Maltese dog (Zoöl.), a breed of small terriers, having long silky white hair. The breed originated in Malta.
MANDARIN n.
A small orange, with easily separable rind. It is thought to be of Chinese origin, and is counted a distinct species (Citrus nobilis)mandarin orange; tangerine. Mandarin duck (Zoöl.), a beautiful Asiatic duck (Dendronessa galericulata), often domesticated, and regarded by the Chinese as an emblem of conjugal affection.…
MANIPLE n.
Originally, a napkin; later, an ornamental band or scarf worn upon the left arm as a part of the vestments of a priest in the Roman Catholic Church. It is sometimes worn in the English Church service.
MAORI n.
One of the aboriginal inhabitants of New Zealand; also, the original language of New Zealand. -- a.
MARGRAVE n.
Originally, a lord or keeper of the borders or marches in Germany.
MARQUIS n.
A nobleman in England, France, and Germany, of a rank next below that of duke. Originally, the marquis was an officer whose duty was to guard the marches or frontiers of the kingdom. The office has ceased, and the name is now a mere title conferred by patent.
MARSHAL n.
Originally, an officer who had the care of horses; a groom. [Obs.]
MATRIX n.
Hence, that which gives form or origin to anything; as:
MAURIST n.
A member of the Congregation of Saint Maur, an offshoot of the Benedictines, originating in France in the early part of the seventeenth century. The Maurists have been distinguished for their interest in literature.
MAVERICK BRAND n.
A brand originated by a dishonest cattleman, who, without owning any stock, gradually accumulates a herd by finding mavericks. [Western U. S.]
MAWMET n.
A puppet; a doll; originally, an idol, because in the Middle Ages it was generally believed that the Mohammedans worshiped images representing Mohammed. [Obs.] Wyclif. Beau. & Fl.
MAZER n.
A large drinking bowl; -- originally made of maple. [Obs.] Their brimful mazers to the feasting bring. Drayton.
MECHLIN n.
A kind of lace made at, or originating in, Mechlin, in Belgium.
MENNONIST; MENNONITE n.
founder. They believe that the New Testament is the only rule of faith, that there is no original sin, that infants should not be baptized, and that Christians ought not to take oath, hold office, or render military service.
MERCER n.
Originally, a dealer in any kind of goods or wares; now restricted to a dealer in textile fabrics, as silks or woolens. [Eng.]
MERINO a. 2 definitions
Of or pertaining to a variety of sheep with very fine wool, originally bred in Spain.
MERKIN n.
Originally, a wig; afterwards, a mop for cleaning cannon.
MESSAGE STICK n.
A stick, carved with lines and dots, used, esp. by Australian aborigines, to convey information.
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