Antitussive is a term that is often used in the medical field. It refers to a type of medication that is used to suppress coughing. This medication is often used to treat conditions such as bronchitis, pneumonia, and other respiratory illnesses. In this article, we will explore the definition and meaning of antitussive, its origin, and its associations.
Definitions
Antitussive is defined as a medication that is used to suppress coughing. It is often used in the treatment of respiratory illnesses such as bronchitis, pneumonia, and asthma. Antitussive medications work by blocking the cough reflex in the brain.
Origin
The word antitussive comes from the Latin word “antitussis,” which means “against coughing.” The term was first used in the early 20th century to describe medications that were used to treat coughing.
Meaning in different dictionaries
In the Merriam-Webster dictionary, antitussive is defined as “a drug used to relieve or prevent coughing.” The Oxford English Dictionary defines antitussive as “a medicine that suppresses coughing.”
Associations
Antitussive medications are often associated with the treatment of respiratory illnesses such as bronchitis, pneumonia, and asthma. They are also commonly used to treat coughs that are caused by allergies or other irritants.
Synonyms
Some synonyms for antitussive include cough suppressant, cough medicine, and cough syrup.
Antonyms
There are no direct antonyms for antitussive, but some related terms include expectorant, which is a medication that helps to loosen mucus in the lungs, and bronchodilator, which is a medication that helps to open up the airways.
The same root words
Antitussive is derived from the Latin word “antitussis,” which means “against coughing.” Other words that share this root include antitussive agents, antitussive drugs, and antitussive medications.
Example Sentences
- The doctor prescribed an antitussive medication to help suppress my cough.
- I took an antitussive syrup before bed to help me sleep through the night.
- The antitussive medication helped to relieve my coughing and made it easier to breathe.