The story
From Perkins + -ism, after inventor Elisha Perkins (1741–1799).
Etymology from Wiktionary, CC BY-SA 4.0.
Today it means: A pseudoscientific treatment in which two pointed metal rods ("tractors") were waved over the body, supposed to cure inflammation, rheumatism, etc. by drawing off an electrical fluid. Full definition →
From Perkins + -ism, after inventor Elisha Perkins (1741–1799).
Etymology from Wiktionary, CC BY-SA 4.0.