fomes
nounUK /ˈfəʊmiːz/ · US /ˈfoʊ.miːz/
Etymology From medical Latin fōmes (“fomite”), a figurative extension of its original sense of kindling, tinder, etc. Gradually supplanted in use by fomite, a mistaken backformation of its plural form fomites, from Latin fōmitēs.
- If this putrid ferment could be more immediately corrected, a stop would probably be put to the flux, and the fomes of the disease likewise removed.1773, Gentleman's Magazine, number 43, page 554:
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Medicine, Sciences Archaic Synonym of fomite: a substance able to communicate infection between people.
- Toys are common fomites.
- I cannot say that I have known it spread from fomites.1803, Medical & Physical Journal, number 10, page 213:
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Archaic, Figuratively Anything which similarly facilitates the spread of something similarly deleterious.
- Naturall tempers... prove a great Fomes of sinne.1658, John Owen, Of Temptation, page 126: