mercurial

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English[edit]

From Anglo-Norman / Old French mercurial, and their source, Latin mercurialis, from Mercurius (“Mercury”).

mercurial (plural mercurials)

(obsolete) Any of the plants known as mercury. [13th-17th c.]
(astrology) Someone born under the influence of Mercury. [from 16th c.]
(now historical) A perparation of mercury, especially as a treatment for syphilis. [from 17th c.]

mercurial (comparative more mercurial, superlative most mercurial)

(often capitalized, see Mercurial) Pertaining to the planet Mercury. [from 14th c.]
(often capitalized, see Mercurial) Pertaining to the Roman god Mercury. [from 15th c.]
(astrology) Born under the influence of the planet Mercury, and having such characteristics. [from 16th c.]
Of, or pertaining to the element mercury; containing mercury; caused by the action of mercury or quicksilver. [from 16th c.]
Having a volatile or lively character; quick-witted, changeable, animated. [from 17th c.]
- 1723, Charles Walker, Memoirs of Sally Salisbury, I:
  
  From the natural Mercurial Briskness of her Temper, a sedentary Life had ever been her Aversion [...].

containing the element mercury

lively, quick-witted

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