anodyne
Intermediate (B1)
IPA: /ˈænəˌdaɪn/
KK: /ˈænəˌdaɪn/
adjective
Definition
Something that can relieve pain or discomfort, or is gentle and not likely to upset anyone.
Example
The anodyne music helped to calm her nerves after a long day.
Conversation
Have you read any books that are really anodyne?
Yeah, I just finished one about a peaceful village, and it was super relaxing.
That sounds nice! I could use something anodyne after a long week.
Definitely! It's great to have stories that help you unwind.
Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
soothing
calming
mild
Antonyms
painful
offensive
harsh
noun
Definition
A substance or medicine that helps to relieve pain or discomfort.
Example
The doctor prescribed an anodyne to help with her headache.
Conversation
I had such a headache yesterday, I really needed something anodyne to help relieve it.
Oh no! Did you take anything for it?
Yeah, I ended up taking some aspirin, which was pretty anodyne for the pain.
Root Explanation
Anodyne is derived from the Greek word "anodynon" (meaning without pain), which is composed of the prefix "a-" (meaning without) and "odynē" (meaning pain). The word refers to something that alleviates or relieves pain.
Memory Tip
Think of 'without pain' — 'a-' means without, and 'odynē' means pain. This helps you remember that anodyne refers to something that relieves pain.
Visually Confused Words
autodyne
aerodyne