Medicine

Definition

Medicine is a noun that refers to a substance used for treating illness or injury, or the science and practice of diagnosing, treating, and preventing disease. It also denotes a field of study focused on health and healing.

Parts of Speech

• Noun

Pronunciation

American English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ˈmɛd.ɪ.sɪn/
• Respelling: MED-ih-sin

British English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ˈmɛd.sɪn/
• Respelling: MED-sin

Etymology

The word "medicine" originates from Latin "medicina," meaning "the healing art," derived from "medicus," meaning "physician." It entered Old French as "medecine" before appearing in Middle English.

Derivatives

• Medicinal (adjective)
• Medication (noun)
• Medical (adjective)
• Medicate (verb)
• Medico (noun, informal)

Synonyms

• Drug
• Treatment
• Remedy

Antonyms

• Poison
• Harm
• None

Usage

The term "medicine" is commonly used in both scientific and everyday contexts. Examples include "She took her medicine to relieve the pain," and "He is studying medicine at university."

Related Terms

• Pharmacy: The preparation and dispensing of drugs.
• Therapy: Treatment intended to relieve or heal a disorder.
• Healthcare: The maintenance and improvement of physical and mental health.

Detailed Definitions

Noun

• A substance used for treating illness or injury: Refers to drugs or compounds administered to cure or manage conditions.
  • Example: "The doctor prescribed a medicine for her allergies."
• The science and practice of diagnosing, treating, and preventing disease: Refers to the broader field of study and application related to health and healing.
  • Example: "Advancements in medicine have greatly increased life expectancy."
• A field of academic study: Refers to the training and education of medical professionals.
  • Example: "He graduated with a degree in medicine."