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Emetic Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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emetic

[ɪˈmɛtɪk ]

Definitions

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

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

Interesting Facts

Medicine

  • Emetics have been used in traditional medicine to treat poisoning or overdose by forcing the body to expel harmful substances.
  • Some common emetics include substances like ipecac syrup, which was once widely used, but its use has declined due to safety concerns.
  • Modern medical guidelines recommend against using emetics for certain types of poisoning, emphasizing activated charcoal instead.

History

  • In ancient times, emetics were commonly used in various cultures for cleansing the body and are mentioned in historical texts from Egypt and Greece.
  • Hippocrates, often referred to as the 'Father of Medicine,' advocated for the use of emetics as a method for treating various ailments.

Psychology

  • The act of vomiting can be psychologically significant; it might provide a sense of relief from nausea or anxiety when associated with illness.
  • The brain has complex pathways that link the digestive system and emotions — feeling anxious can sometimes lead to a sick stomach.

Literature

  • Emetics sometimes feature in literature as a plot device to depict extreme reactions to food or poisons, creating dramatic tension.
  • Authors like Edgar Allan Poe used imagery of sickness and vomiting to symbolize despair or loss of control in their works.

Origin of 'emetic'

Main points about word origin

  • The term comes from the Greek word 'emetikos,' which means 'causing vomiting.'
  • The prefix 'em-', meaning 'out of' or 'from,' is paired with 'etikos,' alluding to the action of expelling contents from the stomach.

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.