ichor

noun

ˈī-ˌkȯr How to pronounce ichor (audio)
-kər
1
: a thin watery or blood-tinged discharge
2
: an ethereal fluid taking the place of blood in the veins of the ancient Greek gods
ichorous
ˈī-kə-rəs How to pronounce ichor (audio)
adjective

Examples of ichor in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Even many people who claim to be critical thinkers dive into the ichor and become part of it. — Phil Plait, Discover Magazine, 20 Aug. 2012 In a sense, this ichor functioned like a power source or electricity, circulating through the robot’s bronze limbs and fueling his movements and actions. — Sofia Giannuzzi, Smithsonian Magazine, 22 Apr. 2025 Talos was eventually deactivated by the witch Medea, who (in one version of the myth) removed a bronze rivet on his ankle and drained out the ichor that powered his movement. — Peter Thonemann, WSJ, 7 Dec. 2018

Word History

Etymology

Greek ichōr

First Known Use

15th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of ichor was in the 15th century

Rhymes for ichor

See All Rhymes for ichor

Browse Nearby Words

icho
ichor
ichorous
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Cite this Entry

“Ichor.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/ichor. Accessed 8 Jul. 2026.

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Kids Definition

ichor

noun
ˈī-ˌkȯ(ə)r How to pronounce ichor (audio)
-kər
: a fluid taking the place of blood in the veins of the gods and goddesses of Greek mythology

Medical Definition

ichor

noun
ˈī-ˌkȯ(ə)r How to pronounce ichor (audio)
: a thin watery or blood-tinged discharge (as from an ulcer) compare sanies
ichorous
-kə-rəs How to pronounce ichor (audio)
adjective
Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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