Emily Dickinson Lexicon

TOR-RE-FAC'TION, n. [Fr. from L. torrefacio; torridus and facio.]

1. The operation of drying by a fire.
2. In metallurgy, the operation of roasting ores.
3. In pharmacy, the drying or roasting of drugs on metaline plate, placed over or before coals of fire, till they become friable to the fingers, or till some other desired effect is produced. Cyc.