aspirin

UK: ˈæsprɪn | US: ˈæsprɪn

Definition

  1. n. a synthetic compound used as a pain reliever and anti-inflammatory drug.

Structure
a <prefix>spir <root: spirea (plant genus)>in <suffix: chemical compound>
Etymology

The word "aspirin" originates from the German trademark "Aspirin," coined by Bayer in 1899. It combines:

  • "a-" (acetyl, a chemical prefix),
  • "spir" (from Spiraea ulmaria, the plant from which salicylic acid was originally derived),
  • "-in" (a common suffix for chemical compounds).
    The name reflects its chemical derivation and medicinal purpose, evolving into a generic term for acetylsalicylic acid.
Examples

  1. She took an aspirin to relieve her headache.

  2. Aspirin is often used to reduce fever and inflammation.

  3. Doctors may recommend low-dose aspirin for heart health.

  4. The pharmacist advised against taking aspirin on an empty stomach.

  5. Aspirin was first marketed as a powder before being sold in tablet form.