Definition

A hard mass made of indigestible materials like hair or plant fibers that can form in the stomach or intestines of animals and humans. It was once thought to cure poisons and have magical powers.

Example

The veterinarian found a bezoar in the cow's stomach during the examination.

Conversation

Have you ever heard about a bezoar?

Yeah, I read something about it in a history book.

It's fascinating how people used to think it could cure poison.

I know, right? It’s wild what we used to believe.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Bezoar comes from the Persian word 'pād-zahr' (meaning antidote or counter-poison), which was adopted into Latin as 'bezoarium'. The term originally referred to a substance believed to have medicinal properties, particularly in neutralizing poisons.

Memory Tip

Think of the Persian word for antidote ('pād-zahr') to remember that a bezoar is something thought to counteract poison.

Visually Confused Words