English Explanatory Dictionary

Perkinism

English dictionary entry

Meanings

noun
  1. A pseudoscientific treatment in which two pointed metal rods ("tractors") were waved over the body, supposed to cure inflammation, rheumatism, etc. by drawing off an electrical fluid.

Word forms

Perkinism

Etymology

From Perkins + -ism, after inventor Elisha Perkins (1741–1799).

Synonyms

tractoration tractorism
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