Langimage
English

medicine

|med-i-cine|

B1

/ˈmɛdɪsɪn/

healing substance

Etymology
Etymology Information

'medicine' originates from Latin, specifically the word 'medicina,' where 'medicus' meant 'physician.'

Historical Evolution

'medicina' transformed into the Old French word 'medecine,' and eventually became the modern English word 'medicine' through Middle English.

Meaning Changes

Initially, it meant 'the art of healing,' but over time it evolved into its current meaning of 'a substance used for treatment.'

Meanings by Part of Speech

Noun 1

a substance or preparation used in treating disease.

She took the medicine to relieve her headache.

Synonyms

Antonyms

Noun 2

the science or practice of the diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of disease.

He studied medicine at university.

Synonyms

Antonyms

Last updated: 2025/01/11 11:35