bromide
UK: /ˈbrəʊ.maɪd/ | US: /ˈbroʊ.maɪd/
n. 1. A compound of bromine with another element or group.
n. 2. A trite or unoriginal remark; a cliché.
n. 3. (Historical) A sedative preparation containing bromine.
The word "bromide" originates from the element bromine (discovered in 1826, named after Greek bromos "stench" due to its sharp odor) combined with the suffix -ide, used in chemistry to denote binary compounds. By the late 19th century, "bromide" metaphorically extended to describe dull, predictable statements—inspired by the sedative effect of potassium bromide, which was widely prescribed at the time. This dual meaning reflects both scientific and cultural history.
Sodium bromide is used in photographic film development.
His speech was full of tired bromides about hard work and perseverance.
Doctors once prescribed bromide to treat anxiety and epilepsy.
The critic dismissed the politician’s platitudes as mere bromides.
Bromide salts are still employed in some industrial processes.