sprue Definition

sprue¹
noun sprues

1. A vertical channel that leads into a mould and through which molten plastic or metal can be poured.
2. The solidified plastic or metal that collects in this kind of channel.

Etymology: 19c.

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sprue²
noun

1. A tropical disease of unknown cause that affects the digestive tract and which is characterized by a sore tongue, severe diarrhoea, voluminous frothy stools, weight loss, anaemia and oedema.

Etymology: Early 19c: from Dutch spruw, from German Spruwe tumour.