in chemistry, &c. the reduction of a mixed body into its component parts, or first principles, by a proper analysis. See Chemistry, p. 100.

in medicine, that coction or alteration of the crude peccant matter of any disease, either by the natural strength of the patient, or of its own accord, or by the application of remedies, whereby its bulk, figure, cohesion, &c. are so far changed, as that it ceases to be morbid, and becomes laudable.

RESOLVENTS, in medicine, remedies proper to resolve and dissipate tumours and gatherings, to soften inductions, and, by their tenacity and warmth, evacuate redundant and peccant humours through the pores. Under this class come various unguents, emplasters, &c.