E. Cobham Brewer 1810–1897. Dictionary of Phrase and Fable. 1898.
Inoc’ulate (4 syl.)
is to put in an eye (Latin, in oculus). The allusion is to a plan adopted by gardeners who insert the “eye” or small bud of a superior plant into the stock of an inferior one, in order to produce flowers or fruits of better quality.
