Sprue
/spruː/noun
A narrow channel through which molten metal enters a mold, or a chronic intestinal disorder historically associated with malabsorption.
Did you know?Medical “sprue” was once a mysterious tropical illness; modern tropical sprue is linked to intestinal malabsorption, while non-tropical sprue became associated with celiac disease.
Etymological Timeline
Proto-Germanic period
Germanic
*spreut- / *sprut-
“A reconstructed Germanic family associated with shooting out, spreading, or projecting; its connection to sprue is probable but not completely certain.”
Middle Dutch
Middle Dutch
spruwe
“A form related to “sprout” or “spout,” associated with something projecting or issuing forth.”
16th Century
Dutch
spruw
“A diseased condition of the mouth or intestines, especially a whitish oral inflammation.”
17th Century
English
sprue
“A channel or passage through which molten metal is poured into a mold.”
18th–19th Century
English
sprue
“A chronic intestinal disorder characterized by impaired digestion and nutrient absorption.”
Modern English
English
sprue
“A casting channel; medically, usually tropical sprue or the historical name for conditions related to celiac disease.”