(ˌfaɪsəʊˈstɪɡmiːn) or physostigmin (ˌfaɪsəʊˈstɪɡmɪn)
noun
an alkaloid found in the Calabar bean used esp in eye drops to reduce pressure inside the eyeball. Formula: C15H21N3O2
Also called: eserine
Word origin
C19: from New Latin Physostigma genus name, from Greek phusa bladder +stigma mark
physostigmine in American English
(ˌfaɪsoʊˈstɪgˌmin; ˌfaɪsoʊˈstɪgmɪn)
noun
a colorless or pinkish crystalline alkaloid, C15H21N3O2, extracted from the Calabar bean, used in medicine for stimulating intestinal muscles, contracting the pupils of the eyes, etc.
Word origin
< ModL Physostigma, name of the genus including the Calabar bean < Gr physa, a bellows (< IE *phus-, var. of *pu-, *phu-, to blow > L pustula) + stigma, a prick (see stick) + -ine3