Finger, s. The flexible member of the hand by which men catch and hold; a small measure of extension.
Fir, s. The tree of which deal boards are made.
Fire, v. To set on fire; to kindle; to inflame the passions; to discharge any fire-arms.
Fire-arms, s. Arms which owe their efficacy to fire; guns.
Firing, p. The application of a red hot iron to the skin, so as to burn without penetrating through it; to cauterise a horse.
The violent inflammation firing occasions, rouses the absorbent vessels into action, by which callous or even bony swellings are sometimes dispersed. The diseases in which it is most efficacious are spavins, ring-bones, and callous swellings about the back sinews, the consequences of strains and windgalls. Firing draws blood to the affected part, thickens and strengthens it, and makes the skin act as a permanent bandage. A blister is often applied to the part immediately after firing, or on the following day, to render it more effectual. It is necessary to observe that the milder remedies should be tried before this severe operation is had recourse to. Firing has been recommended for the purposes of strengthening the back sinews and hocks of colts, to prevent strains, and what is termed breaking-down.
It has been erroneously asserted, that when firing is employed to a callus of the back sinews, the swelling should be previously reduced by blistering; that firing would then prevent a return; whereas if the firing were performed in the first place, it would fix the swelling, and render it incurable. In inflammation, certainly firing will do harm, therefore it must be first removed by the frequent application of a cooling lotion, such as diluted vinegar, in which a little sugar of lead has been dissolved.—Percival.
Firelock, s. A soldier’s gun; a gun discharged by striking steel with flint.
Fish, s. An animal that inhabits the water.
Fish, v. To be employed in catching fish.