Definition

a mixture of zinc oxide with a small amount of ferric oxide used in lotions, liniments, and ointments

First Known Use

15th century, in the meaning defined above

History and Etymology

Middle English calamyn ore of zinc, from Medieval Latin calamina, alteration of Latin cadmia — more at cadmium

calamine

noun

cal·a·mine

ˈka-lə-ˌmīn -mən

a mixture of zinc oxide with a small amount of ferric oxide used in lotions, liniments, and ointments

First Known Use

15th century, in the meaning defined above

History and Etymology

Middle English calamyn ore of zinc, from Medieval Latin calamina, alteration of Latin cadmia — more at cadmium