A Chymical Dictionary

Reading Route Through Names and Changing Senses

Follow the pairs Rebis and Rebus, Silo and Sylo, Saxifraga and Saxifragus. Small changes in spelling accompany substantial differences in the glosses. The correct response is to preserve the distinct records and compare them.

Then compare Anthos, Cheiri and Alcaest. The first two expressly change their senses with their vegetable or metallic setting and with qualification. Alcaest instead records competing identifications and directs the reader toward the author’s preparation. Context can mean subject matter, grammar or an operation, depending on the entry.

Read Viltrum philosophorum, Vrina vini and Zaidir for qualifications and alternatives. Finally compare Zinck with Zuitter. A familiar modern-looking headword can carry a historical explanation that should remain visible.

Discussion questions. Which words in a compound expression govern the identification? How does the compiler signal alternatives? What is lost when a synonym is detached from its fuller target entry? Which editorial search forms help readers without claiming to be historical synonyms?