Macrocolum, Macrocollum, R. Paper of the largest size, that is to say, in sheets formed of a number of pieces of parchment or papyrus glued together.
Macula, R. The mesh of a net; in the plural maculæ.
Madder. The root of “rubia tinctoria” (Fr. garance), from which a number of valuable pigments are made, which are transparent and permanent, working equally well in oil and in water-colours. They vary from the lightest and most delicate rose to the deepest purple, and are known as rose madder, pink madder, madder-carmine, purple madder, brown madder, intense madder purple, and orange madder lake.
Madonna, It. The Virgin Mary. (See Joys.)
Mæander, Gr. (Μαίανδρος). An ornamental design so called from the numerous windings it described, like the river Mæander. Its proper name is the Greek Fret. (Figs. 334 to 336.)
Mælium. (See Melium.)
Mæmacteria, Gr. (μαιμακτήρια). Festivals held at Athens in honour of the boisterous or stormy Zeus (Μαιμάκτης), with the object of obtaining a mild winter.
Mænad, Gr. (μαινάς). Literally, a frenzied woman, and thence a bacchante. (See Baccha.)
Mænhir. (See Menhir.)
Mænia Columna, R. A column situated in the Roman forum, near which certain magistrates (triumviri criminales) judged criminals, slaves, and vagrants.