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Emetic: meaning, definitions and examples

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emetic

 

[ ɪˈmɛtɪk ]

Adjective / Noun
Context #1 | Adjective

medicinal use

Emetic refers to a substance that induces vomiting. It is often used in medical settings to help expel toxic substances from the stomach.

Synonyms

nauseant, vomitive

Examples of usage

  • The doctor administered an emetic to remove the poison from the patient's system.
  • In traditional medicine, emetic herbs were commonly used to treat ingested toxins.
  • Despite its effectiveness, emetic treatments can lead to dehydration.
  • Emetic compounds are found in some over-the-counter medications.
Context #2 | Noun

substance classification

An emetic is a drug or agent that causes vomiting. They are sometimes used in emergencies to treat poisoning or overdose.

Synonyms

purgative, vomit-inducer

Examples of usage

  • Activated charcoal is sometimes given after an emetic to absorb the remaining toxins.
  • Some older medications served as emetics before safer options were discovered.
  • Emetics are no longer widely used due to the risk of complications.
  • Healthcare providers should carefully assess the need for an emetic.

Translations

Translations of the word "emetic" in other languages:

🇵🇹 emético

🇮🇳 उल्टी करने वाला

🇩🇪 emetisch

🇮🇩 emetik

🇺🇦 еметичний

🇵🇱 emetczny

🇯🇵 嘔吐剤の

🇫🇷 émétique

🇪🇸 emético

🇹🇷 emetik

🇰🇷 구토 유발

🇸🇦 مُقيئ

🇨🇿 emetický

🇸🇰 emetický

🇨🇳 催吐的

🇸🇮 emetik

🇮🇸 uppköst

🇰🇿 құсу

🇬🇪 ემეტიკური

🇦🇿 emetik

🇲🇽 emético

Word origin

The word 'emetic' comes from the Greek word 'emetikos', which means 'causing vomiting', derived from 'emein', meaning 'to vomit'. The term began being used in the English language around the late 15th century. Historically, emetics were utilized in various medical practices, particularly in the treatment of poisoning. Ancient civilizations recognized the importance of cleansing the body of harmful substances, and thus emetics became a mainstay in their medicinal toolkit. Over time, however, the use of emetics has evolved, with modern medicine moving towards safer and more effective means of treatment. Despite the significant historical significance of emetics, their use is now limited and approached with caution due to potential adverse effects.

Word Frequency Rank

Positioned at #21,950, this word is part of extensive vocabulary. It's relatively rare in general usage but may be important in specific fields or formal writing.