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Dictionary of Phrase and Fable—P

Perfume

(2 syl.) means simply “from smoke” (Latin, per fumum), the first perfumes having been obtained by the combustion of aromatic woods and gums. Their original use was in sacrifices, to counteract the offensive odours of the burning flesh.

Source: Dictionary of Phrase and Fable, E. Cobham Brewer, 1894

Perfumed Terms of the Time

Perfide Albion!

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Perfume

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