An apothecary is a person who used to prepare and sell medicines, similar to what we now call a pharmacist. It can also refer to the shop where medicines were made and sold.

Quick Scoop

In older English usage, an apothecary was a medical professional who compounded remedies, dispensed medicines, and sometimes gave basic medical advice. Today, the word is mostly historical, though some businesses use it for a vintage or herbal-themed feel.

Simple meaning

  • Person: someone who made and sold medicines.
  • Place: a medicine shop or pharmacy-like store.
  • Modern equivalent: pharmacist, or chemist in British English.

In plain language

If you saw the word in an old book, it usually means a medicine-maker or drug seller from before modern pharmacies became common.