E. Cobham Brewer 1810–1897. Dictionary of Phrase and Fable. 1898.
Sarcoph’agus.
A stone, according to Pliny, which consumed the flesh, and was therefore chosen by the ancients for coffins. It is called sometimes lapis Assius, because it was found at Assos of Lycia. (Greek, sarx, flesh; phagein, to eat or consume.)
