n 1  :  the act or process of boiling usu. in water so as to extract the flavor or active principle - compare INFUSION1b(1)    2 a  :  an extract or liquid preparation obtained by decocting  b  :  a liquid preparation made by boiling a medicinal plant with water usu. in the proportion of 5 parts of the drug to 100 parts of water .
 
 
 
Published under license with Merriam-Webster, Incorporated.  © 1997-2004.