Analgesic: meaning, definitions and examples

Used in medical or formal contexts to describe a drug that relieves pain without causing loss of consciousness.

• The doctor prescribed an analgesic for her chronic back pain
• Acetaminophen is a common over-the-counter analgesic

Informally used to describe strong medication that reduces or eliminates severe pain, sometimes associated with stronger or prescription medications.

• He needed a painkiller after the surgery
• Doctors often prescribe painkillers for serious injuries

Commonly used in everyday language to describe any medication that reduces or eliminates pain.

• I took a pain reliever for my headache
• You can buy pain relievers at any pharmacy

Commonly used in medical contexts to refer to medications or treatments that relieve pain. Suitable for use by healthcare professionals or in discussions about medical treatments.

• The doctor prescribed an analgesic for the patient's chronic pain
• Over-the-counter analgesics can be effective for mild to moderate pain

Similar to 'pain-reducing,' but specifically implies the action of making pain go away or alleviating it. It is often used when talking about specific products or techniques designed to relieve pain.

• The massage had a pain-relieving effect on her sore muscles
• This ointment is very pain-relieving for muscle strains

Typically used in more general or informal settings to describe methods or treatments that lower the intensity of pain. It is more colloquial than 'analgesic' and can be understood by a broader audience.

• Applying ice to the injury can have a pain-reducing effect
• Deep breathing exercises are often pain-reducing