n. 1. One who, or that which, dries; that which may expel or absorb moisture; a desiccative; as, the sun and a northwesterly wind are great driers of the earth. [ 1913 Webster ]
2. (Paint.) Drying oil; a substance mingled with the oil used in oil painting to make it dry quickly.
n. [ F., from Sp. madero, or Pg. madeiro, fr. Sp. madera wood for building, timber, Pg. madeira, L. materia stuff, materials, lumber. See Matter. ] A thick plank, used for several mechanical purposes; especially:(a) A plank to receive the mouth of a petard, with which it is applied to anything intended to be broken down. (b) A plank or beam used for supporting the earth in mines or fortifications. [ 1913 Webster ]