I came across an intereseting word today - ensanguine. It means "to cover with blood." Wow. The images that conjures.
Immediately I thought of the Coutess Bathory, she who used to sacrifice virgins, drain their blood and bathe in it to keep herself looking young. At least, that's how the story goes. Hmm. And I guess if her maids didn't get all the blood off her after her bath, she'd be shedding flecks of red dandruff. Not too sexy there. Not to mention pretty. Might have been counterproductive.
In ancient times some cultures used to paint their deceased with red pigment to simulate blood, the blood of birth. Supposed to help the person be born into the afterlife or into the next incarnation of life on earth, depending on the belief system.
I just think it's weird that we have a word at all for it. How often are things covered with blood?
And if someone was going around covered in blood, or covering something or someone in blood, medication would probably be called for. In huge amounts, delivered intravenously. Preferably in a secure room.
And far from me.
3 comments:
What an odd word. I can't think of many instances to use it but it would be an interesting writing challenge.
Simply Sarah
I think it's an odd word, too, Sarah. And I really like your idea of a word challenge! I wonder to whom we could suggest that?
I do like that word to. It's sensual sounding, yet gruesome. My kind of word. :)
Spunky's Soldier, A-Z Challenge Writer’s Mark
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