analgesic

1 of 2

noun

an·​al·​ge·​sic ˌa-nᵊl-ˈjē-zik 

-sik

: an agent producing diminished sensation to pain without loss of consciousness : a drug that is used to relieve pain and produce analgesia

opioid analgesics

a topical analgesic

Aspirin and acetaminophen are the oral analgesics of first choice in the treatment of mild to moderate pain caused by cancer.

—William T. McGivney et al.

analgesic

2 of 2

adjective

: relating to, characterized by, or producing analgesia : relieving or lessening pain without loss of consciousness

Ginger, a member of the same plant family as turmeric, contains anti-inflammatory compounds and volatile oils … that show analgesic and sedative effects in animal studies.

—Anahad O'Connor

analgesic drugs

a topical analgesic cream

also : caused by the use of analgesics

analgesic nephropathy

Synonyms

Noun

• anesthetic
• anodyne
• painkiller

Examples of analgesic in a Sentence

Noun

the doctor prescribed an analgesic and rest for my injured knee

Recent Examples on the Web

Noun

May Reduce Inflammation Carom seeds have potent analgesic (pain relief) and anti-inflammatory properties. —Lana Barhum, Verywell Health, 24 Oct. 2024

Hemp contains cannabinoids like CBD and CBN, which have relaxing, anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, analgesic, and antidepressant properties that may be useful for helping insomnia, reducing anxiety, and inducing a sense of calm. —Valentina Bottoni, Vogue, 23 Oct. 2024

Adjective

These remedies involve using plants with anti-inflammatory, antibacterial, and analgesic properties to soothe sore, achy gums and painful teeth.16 Garlic A staple in kitchens worldwide, garlic may temporarily relieve tooth pain and protect against cavities and gum disease. —Lindsay Curtis, Health, 25 Sep. 2024

The standalone analgesic effect that mindfulness produces could be leveraged to help people living with painful conditions. —New Atlas, 8 Sep. 2024

Word History

Etymology

Noun

noun derivative of analgesic entry 2

Adjective

analgesia + -ic entry 1

First Known Use

Noun

1860, in the meaning defined above

Adjective

1852, in the meaning defined above

Medical Definition

analgesic

1 of 2 adjective

an·​al·​ge·​sic -ˈjē-zik  -sik 

: relating to, characterized by, or producing analgesia

analgesic

2 of 2 noun

: an agent for producing analgesia