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

This category includes ketamine, lower doses of opioid analgesics and anabolic steroids, for instance. —Kathryn Watson, CBS News, 1 Nov. 2024

The potential benefits are attributed to the analgesic and anti-inflammatory effects of cannabinoids, as well as their ability to enhance sleep quality, which is crucial for muscle recovery. —Tribune Content Agency, The Mercury News, 26 Sep. 2024

Adjective

Pain Relief – Cannabinoids like THC and CBD have analgesic properties that may help alleviate body aches and headaches associated with the flu. —Tribune Content Agency, The Mercury News, 15 Nov. 2024

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

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