Definition

A substance made from ammonium carbonate, often used in smelling salts, or the antler of a male deer, which was historically used to produce ammonia.

Example

In the past, hartshorn was commonly used as a remedy for fainting spells.

Conversation

Have you ever heard of hartshorn?

Yeah, isn't it some kind of old-fashioned smelling salts?

Exactly! It used to be made from the antlers of a hart.

That’s so interesting! I didn’t know it had such a unique origin.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Hartshorn is derived from the Old English "heorot" (meaning stag or deer) and "horn" (meaning horn). The term originally referred to the horn of a stag, which was used in various medicinal and practical applications.

Memory Tip

Think of a 'stag' ('heorot') and its 'horn' — that's why hartshorn refers to the horn of a stag.

Visually Confused Words