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Tonic Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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tonic

[ˈtɒnɪk ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Noun

drink

A medicinal substance taken to give a feeling of well-being or a feeling of invigoration.

Synonyms

pick-me-up, stimulant.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
tonic

Often overlaps with 'tonic' in the first entry but can also refer to a beverage mixed with tonic water, especially in the context of cocktails.

  • He ordered a gin and tonic at the bar.
  • Tonic water adds a refreshing taste to this drink.
stimulant

A substance that raises levels of physiological or nervous activity in the body. Often used in medical or scientific contexts or to describe drugs that increase alertness, attention, and energy.

  • Caffeine is a common stimulant found in coffee and tea.
  • The doctor warned against the excessive use of stimulants to stay awake.
pick-me-up

Informal term for something that provides a quick boost of energy or mood, often used in casual conversations about food, drinks, or activities.

  • I need a little pick-me-up after that long meeting.
  • A cup of coffee is just the pick-me-up I need in the afternoon.

Examples of usage

  • She drank a tonic to boost her energy levels before the race.
  • Tonic water is often mixed with gin in cocktails.
Context #2 | Noun

music

The first note of a scale which sets the key.

Synonyms

keynote, root.

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Word Description / Examples
tonic

Commonly used in both music and medicine. In music, it refers to the first note of a scale or key. In medicine, it describes a substance that invigorates or restores health.

  • The tonic of C major is C.
  • She drank a tonic to help with her fatigue.
root

Used in both music and general language. In music, it indicates the base note of a chord. In a broader sense, it refers to the origin or fundamental part of something.

  • In a C major chord, C is the root.
  • The root of the problem lies in poor communication.
keynote

Used to describe the principal theme or main idea of a speech, conference, or event. Often related to speeches delivered at the beginning of events.

  • The keynote speaker captivated the audience with his insights.
  • The conference's keynote address focused on technological innovation.

Examples of usage

  • In the key of C major, the tonic is the note C.
  • The tonic chord is usually the first and last chord in a piece of music.
Context #3 | Adjective

general

Giving a feeling of vigor or well-being; invigorating.

Synonyms

invigorating, refreshing.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
tonic

In a similar vein, 'tonic' can also refer to something that revitalizes or stimulates a general sense of well-being, but it may carry a slightly medicinal or therapeutic connotation.

  • The retreat was a tonic for his stress
  • Listening to music served as a tonic for her soul
invigorating

When describing something that makes you feel more energetic and alive, this word works well. It is often used in reference to physical activities, experiences, or environments.

  • A brisk walk in the morning can be very invigorating
  • The mountain air was invigorating
refreshing

This term is suitable for situations where something provides a sense of coolness, relief, or renewed energy, especially in hot or tiring conditions. It can be used for drinks, weather, or even ideas.

  • Drinking cold lemonade on a hot day is so refreshing
  • Her perspective on the issue was refreshing

Examples of usage

  • The tonic music uplifted the audience.
  • The tonic effect of the fresh air was evident.

Translations

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Origin of 'tonic'

The word 'tonic' originated in the late 17th century from the Greek word 'tonikos', meaning 'of stretching'. It was initially used in a medical context to refer to substances that invigorate or restore health. Over time, the term expanded to music theory, where it denotes the first note of a scale. The adjective form of 'tonic' developed to describe anything that gives a feeling of vigor or well-being.

See also: tonne.

Word Frequency Rank

Ranked #11,143, this word falls into high-advanced vocabulary. It appears less frequently but is valuable for expressing precise meanings in specific contexts.