Ab-sor´bents (L. ab and sorbeo, to suck up). The vessels which take part in the process of absorption.
Ab-sorp´tion. The process of sucking up fluids by means of an animal membrane.
Ac-com-mo-da´tion of the Eye. The alteration in the shape of the crystalline lens, which accommodates or adjusts the eye for near and remote vision.
Ac´id, Lactic (L. lac, milk). The acid ingredient of sour milk; the gastric juice also contains it.
Al-bu´men, or Albumin (L. albus, white). An animal substance resembling white of egg.
Al-bu´mi-nose (from albumen). A soluble animal substance produced in the stomach by the digestion of the albuminoid substances.
Al-bu´min-oid substances. A class of proximate principles resembling albumen; they may be derived from either the animal or vegetable kingdoms.
Al´i-ment (L. alo, to nourish). That which affords nourishment; food.
Al-i-ment´a-ry Ca-nal (from aliment). A long tube in which the food is digested, or prepared for reception into the system.
An-æs-thet´ics (Greek, αν, an, without, αἰσθεσία, aisthesia, feeling).—Those medicinal agents which prevent the feeling of pain, such as chloroform, laughing-gas, etc.