braxy
/ˈbraksi
/noun [mass noun]
A fatal bacterial infection of young sheep, occurring chiefly in upland areas in winter.
- The bacterium is Clostridium septicum.
- C septicum also causes braxy in sheep, a highly fatal infection characterized by toxemia and inflammation of the abomasal wall.
- Games like yesterday will provide the basis for braxy season.
Origin
Late 18th century: perhaps from obsolete brack 'break, flaw', from Germanic base of break1.