Placebo: meaning, definitions and examples

Etymology

• The term 'placebo' comes from Latin, meaning 'I shall please,' reflecting its ability to make someone feel better through suggestion.
• It was originally used in the early 18th century in the context of medicine, referring to treatments intended to please rather than cure.

Psychology

• Research in psychology shows that belief plays a powerful role in healing; the expectation of improvement can trigger real physiological changes in the body.
• Studies have shown that people with chronic pain can experience significant relief after taking a placebo, demonstrating the mind-body connection.

Medical Studies

• Placebo-controlled trials are standard in new drug testing, where one group receives the actual medication and another the placebo to assess effectiveness.
• The placebo effect can be so strong that in some cases, it leads to a significant percentage of patients improving, regardless of the treatment received.

Pop Culture

• Films and books often reference the placebo effect to highlight how beliefs can influence reality; it's a fascinating theme in stories about healing.
• In the TV show 'House,' the use of placebos is discussed as an ethical dilemma in treating patients who may not need actual medication.

Neurology

• Neuroscientific research has shown that taking a placebo can activate the brain’s reward system, leading to the release of endorphins that can reduce pain.
• Functional MRI scans reveal that placebos can change brain activity, indicating that the mind’s perception of treatment can materially impact physical responses.

Ranked #11,126, this word falls into high-advanced vocabulary. It appears less frequently but is valuable for expressing precise meanings in specific contexts.

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