a. and sb. [f. L. Armenia, Gr. Ἀρμενία, a country east of Asia Minor.]
A. adj. Of or pertaining to Armenia or the Armenians. Armenian bole: a pale red-colored earth from Armenia, used medicinally, and in the composition of tooth-powders. Armenian stone: a blue carbonate of copper, formerly administered as an aperient and as a remedy for epilepsy.
[1621. Burton, Anat. Mel., II. iv. I. iv. Lapis Lazuli and Armenus because they purge.]
1727–51. Chambers, Cycl., Armenian bole is … prescribed internally against diarrhœas.
1867. Lady Herbert, Cradle L., iii. 97. The great Armenian Convent at Venice.
B. sb. a. A native of Armenia. b. An adherent of the Armenian Church, one of the oriental christian communities.
1598. Greenwey, Tacitus Ann., XIII. viii. The Armenians being doubtfull, and faithfull to neither side.
1875. Scrivener, Lect. Text New Test., 106. The Georgian, which is said to date from the sixth century, pertains to the Armenians of the orthodox faith.
