Analgesia: meaning, definitions and examples

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analgesia

 

[ ˌæn.əlˈdʒiː.ziə ]

Noun
Context #1 | Noun

medical terminology

Analgesia is the inability to feel pain while still having consciousness and awareness. It can be achieved through various methods, including the use of medication such as analgesics, which are specifically designed to relieve pain. This term is often used in both clinical settings and research, especially in contexts involving pain management and anesthesia. Patients may experience analgesia during surgical procedures or as part of chronic pain management strategies.

Synonyms

anesthesia, numbing, pain relief

Examples of usage

  • The doctor administered analgesia before the surgery.
  • Analgesia was effective in reducing the patient's discomfort.
  • The patient reported significant analgesia following treatment.

Etymology

The word 'analgesia' has its origins in the early 19th century, derived from the Greek terms 'an-', meaning 'without', and 'algia', meaning 'pain'. The term began to be used in the medical field as understanding and approaches toward pain management evolved. Initially, it referred to a general inability to feel pain, but as medical practices advanced, it came to be associated more closely with specific methods of controlling pain. The development of various analgesics has significantly transformed surgical practices and the treatment of chronic pain, leading to a greater emphasis on patient comfort and quality of life.

Word Frequency Rank

With rank #17,456, this word belongs to specialized vocabulary. While not common in everyday speech, it enriches your ability to express complex ideas.