(Originally) liquid petroleum, used as a remedy for various disorders; (later also) any of several medicinal preparations of varying composition but usually including liquid petroleum.
Origin
Mid 18th century; earliest use found in Rules & Maxims.
Definition of British oil in US English:
British oil
noun
historical
(Originally) liquid petroleum, used as a remedy for various disorders; (later also) any of several medicinal preparations of varying composition but usually including liquid petroleum.
Origin
Mid 18th century; earliest use found in Rules & Maxims.