analgesic
UK: ˌænəlˈdʒiːzɪk | US: ˌænəlˈdʒiːzɪk
adj. relieving pain without causing loss of consciousness
n. a drug or agent that relieves pain
analgesic = an<without> + alges<pain> + ic<adjective suffix>
- an<without>: From Greek an-, meaning "not" or "without."
- alges<pain>: From Greek algos, meaning "pain."
- ic<adjective suffix>: A suffix forming adjectives, often indicating "pertaining to" or "characterized by."
Etymology Origin:
The word analgesic originates from Greek components. The prefix an- negates the root alges (pain), and the suffix -ic turns it into an adjective. Literally, it means "without pain," reflecting its medical function to relieve pain without inducing unconsciousness. The term entered English in the 19th century, aligning with advancements in pharmacology.
The doctor prescribed an analgesic to manage her chronic back pain.
Aspirin is a common over-the-counter analgesic.
The patient reported significant relief after taking the analgesic.
Some herbal teas have mild analgesic properties.
Researchers are developing a new analgesic with fewer side effects.