Curative Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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curative

[ˈkjʊərətɪv ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Noun

medical treatment

A substance or treatment that cures disease or relieves pain. It is aimed at restoring health and well-being.

Synonyms

cure, remedy, treatment.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
curative

Same as above.

  • Many plants have curative properties that are used in traditional medicine
remedy

Often used for minor health issues or general problems, not necessarily medical; can be both natural or pharmaceutical.

  • Honey and lemon are common remedies for a sore throat
treatment

Describes a medical process or procedure aimed at managing or alleviating symptoms of a disease or condition, not necessarily curing it.

  • The patient underwent a six-month treatment for his illness
cure

Refers to a complete recovery from a disease or medical condition, often used in both medical and everyday contexts.

  • Scientists are working hard to find a cure for cancer

Examples of usage

  • Antibiotics are often used as curatives for bacterial infections.
  • Acupuncture is considered a curative for chronic pain.
  • The doctor prescribed a herbal remedy as a curative for the patient's illness.
Context #2 | Adjective

healing

Having the ability to cure or heal. Tending to restore health or alleviate a condition.

Synonyms

healing, medicinal, therapeutic.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
curative

Best used when referring to something that has the ability to cure a disease or condition.

  • The new drug has curative properties that can treat the illness
  • The curative effects of the therapy were evident within days
healing

Appropriate when talking about the process of recovery or something that promotes health and well-being.

  • Her words were very healing after the traumatic event
  • The healing process takes time and patience
therapeutic

Best used when discussing treatments that provide relief and improve health, not necessarily curing the condition.

  • The massage was very therapeutic and helped with my back pain
  • Many people find yoga to be a therapeutic practice
medicinal

Used when referring to substances or preparations that are used for medical treatment.

  • The plant has been valued for its medicinal properties for centuries
  • He applied the medicinal ointment to the wound

Examples of usage

  • The curative properties of this plant have been known for centuries.
  • The mineral water from this spring is believed to have curative effects.
  • Herbal teas are often used for their curative properties.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Medicine

  • Curative treatments aim to eliminate the cause of a disease rather than just treating the symptoms.
  • An example of a curative treatment is surgery to remove a tumor or antibiotics to fight bacterial infections.
  • The concept of curative medicine is distinct from palliative care, which focuses on comfort rather than a cure.

Cultural Practices

  • Many indigenous cultures have traditional healing practices that are considered curative, often involving herbs and rituals.
  • In some Asian cultures, practices like acupuncture and herbal medicine are viewed as curative means to restore balance in the body.
  • Folk remedies from different parts of the world often hold curative claims for a variety of ailments.

Psychology

  • Psychological interventions can be curative, such as cognitive-behavioral therapy for treating anxiety and depression.
  • The therapeutic alliance between a patient and therapist can be a curative factor in mental health treatment.
  • Curative experiences in therapy often relate to breakthroughs or insights that lead to significant improvement.

Literature

  • In literature, curative themes often explore transformation, where characters undergo journeys that heal them emotionally or physically.
  • Many classic novels feature curative elements, where settings like natural landscapes promote healing for troubled characters.
  • The idea of a 'curative narrative' suggests that storytelling itself can provide comfort and recovery for individuals in distress.

Origin of 'curative'

Main points about word origin

  • The word 'curative' comes from the Latin word 'curare,' which means 'to care for' or 'to heal.'
  • It has been used in English since the 15th century to describe healing properties or treatment methods.
  • The Latin root 'cura' also relates to attention and management, indicating that healing requires care.

The word 'curative' comes from the Latin word 'curare', which means 'to take care of' or 'to cure'. The concept of curative treatments has been present in various cultures throughout history, with different remedies and practices aimed at healing diseases and relieving pain. Over time, advancements in medicine have led to the development of modern curative treatments, such as medications, surgeries, and therapies, that are used to restore health and well-being.


Word Frequency Rank

At position #14,057, this word is part of sophisticated English vocabulary. It's useful for academic or professional contexts where precise language is needed.