< Back
painkiller
Definition
A painkiller is a medicine that helps to reduce pain. Painkillers work by blocking the signals that send pain messages to the brain. This can help to make pain less severe or even go away altogether.
Painkillers come in many different forms, including pills, liquids, and creams. They can be used to treat a variety of pains, such as headaches, muscle aches, and toothaches.
It is important to take painkillers as directed by a doctor. Too much painkillers can be dangerous.
How can the word be used?
The doctor prescribed me a painkiller for my sore back.
Different forms of the word
Noun:
- painkiller
- analgesic
- anodyne
- palliative
Verb:
- to kill pain
- to relieve pain
- to mitigate pain
Adjective:
- painkilling
- analgesic
- anodyne
- palliative
Etymology
The word "painkiller" is derived from the Old English words "pān" (pain) and "ciller" (killer). The first recorded use of the word "painkiller" was in the 16th century.
Question
What is a painkiller?