Painkillers Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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painkillers

[ˈpeɪnˌkɪlərz ]

Definition

^{Context #1 | Noun}

medication

Painkillers are drugs or medicine that help to relieve pain. They work by blocking the pain signals to the brain.

Synonyms

analgesics, pain medications, pain relievers.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
painkillers	Commonly used in everyday language to refer to any over-the-counter or prescription medication that alleviates pain. I took some painkillers for my headache. Do you have any painkillers for my sore back?
analgesics	More technical term, often used in medical or scientific contexts to refer to substances that relieve pain. Doctors often prescribe analgesics after surgery. The study focused on the efficacy of various analgesics.
pain relievers	Commonly used term that can refer to both over-the-counter and prescription drugs that alleviate pain, somewhat more casual than 'pain medications'. He bought some pain relievers at the pharmacy. Do you have any pain relievers at home?
pain medications	Generally used in more formal or medical contexts to describe prescribed drugs that manage pain. The patient was given pain medications after the procedure. She needed pain medications to manage her chronic condition.

Examples of usage

Taking painkillers can help reduce the discomfort after surgery.
She took some painkillers for her headache.
Over-the-counter painkillers are available at the pharmacy.
Doctors often prescribe painkillers for severe pain.
Ibuprofen and acetaminophen are common types of painkillers.

Translations

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

Interesting Facts

History

Ancient civilizations used natural remedies like opium and willow bark to relieve discomfort long before modern medicines were developed.
The first synthesized pain reliever, acetaminophen, was discovered in the mid-19th century but became widely used in the 20th century.

Science

Painkillers work by blocking pain signals from reaching the brain, often by targeting specific receptors in the body.
There are two main types: non-opioid (like ibuprofen) and opioid painkillers (like morphine), each with different uses and risks.

Psychology

Research shows that the expectation of receiving pain relief can enhance the effectiveness of painkillers, known as the placebo effect.
Chronic pain can lead to psychological issues like anxiety and depression, and painkillers can sometimes be part of a broader treatment plan addressing these mental health aspects.

Pop Culture

Painkillers often appear in movies and television as crucial plot devices that hint at character struggles or health issues.
The rise of discussions around prescription painkillers in popular media has led to a greater awareness of issues surrounding addiction and misuse.

Literature

In various novels, characters use painkillers as a means to cope with emotional pain or trauma, reflecting deeper themes of human suffering.
Authors often use the metaphor of 'painkillers' to signify temporary solutions to more profound problems in characters’ lives.

Origin of 'painkillers'

Main points about word origin

The term 'painkiller' combines 'pain' (discomfort) and 'killer' (something that reduces or stops), creating a clear understanding of the medicine's purpose.
The word has been in use since the late 19th century, reflecting advancements in medical knowledge and pharmacology.

The term 'painkiller' originated in the early 20th century as a combination of 'pain' and 'killer', referring to substances that alleviate or reduce pain. The use of painkillers has been documented throughout history, with ancient civilizations using plants and natural remedies to ease pain. In modern times, painkillers have become a vital part of medical treatment, helping millions of people manage pain and improve their quality of life.