Emily Dickinson Lexicon

SPERM, n. [Fr. sperme; L. sperma; Gr. σπερμα.]

1. Animal seed; that by which the species is propagated. – Bacon. Ray.
2. The head matter of a certain species of whale, called cachalot. It is called by the French blanc de baleine, the white of whales. It is found also in other parts of the body; but it is improperly named, not being a spermatic substance. Of this matter are made candles of a beautiful white color.
3. Spawn of fishes or frogs.