Oak has been used as a Quinine substitute in the treatment of fevers. Tannins provide many of the healing properties of oak. Tannins bind with proteins in tissues, making a barrier resistant to bacterial invasion. Tannins strengthen tissues and blood vessels.
The opposite term Occident derives from the Latin word occidens, meaning west (lit. setting < occido fall/set). This term meant the west (where the sun sets) but has fallen into disuse in English, in favor of Western world.
Dictionary entry overview: What does independent mean? â¢ INDEPENDENT (noun) The noun INDEPENDENT has 2 senses: 1. a neutral or uncommitted person (especially in politics) 2. a writer or artist who sells services to different employers without a long-term contract with any of them Familiarity information: INDEPENDENT used as a noun is rare. â¢ INDEPENDENT (adjective) The adjective INDEPENDENT has 6 senses: