or **Abraxas**, the supreme god of the Basilidian heretics. It is a mystical or cabalistic word, composed of the Greek letters α, ε, η, ι, ο, υ, ο, which together, according to the Grecian mode of numeration, make up the number 365. For Basilides taught, that there were 365 heavens between the earth and the empyrean; each of which heavens had its angel or intelligence, which created it; each of which angels likewise was created by the angel next above it; thus ascending by a scale to the Supreme being, or first Creator. The Basilidians used the word Abraxas by way of charm or amulet.

**ABRASION** is sometimes used among medical writers for the effect of sharp corrosive medicines or humours in wearing away the natural mucus which covers the membranes, and particularly those of the stomach and intestines. The word is composed of the Latin *ab* and *rado*, to shave or scrape off.