deliquium

Definitions

from The Century Dictionary and Cyclopedia

  • noun In chemistry, a melting or liquefaction by absorption of moisture, as of a salt.
  • noun Figuratively, a melting or maudlin mood of mind.
  • noun An interruption or failure of the sun's light, whether caused by an eclipse or otherwise.
  • noun In medicine, a failure of vital force; syncope.

Examples

  • The result is dullness of sight, a stagnation of the vital circulations, and a general deliquium and sloughing off of all the intellectual faculties.

    Walden, by Henry David Thoreau

  • Also, there were chests of mahogany wood, and other luxurious devices, which my weariness did not hinder me from observing; but finally I was overcome by my weakness, and I threw myself on the bed without removing my apparel, and sustained as I believe, though I have no certain warranty thereof, an access of deliquium or fainting.

    Blackwood's Edinburgh Magazine - Volume 55, No. 344, June, 1844

  • The Assembly melts, under such pressure, into deliquium; or, as it is officially called, adjourns.

    The French Revolution, by Thomas Carlyle

Note

'Deliquium' comes from the Latin 'delinquere,' to fail, offend.