anthelmintic
Upper-Intermediate (B2)
IPA: /ˌæn.θəlˈmɪn.tɪk/
KK: /æn'thɛlmɪntɪk/
adjective
Definition
Describing a substance that helps to remove or kill parasitic worms in the body, particularly in the intestines.
Example
The doctor prescribed an anthelmintic medication to treat the patient's intestinal infection.
Conversation
I just read about this new anthelmintic treatment for pets.
Really? That sounds interesting — what does it do?
It helps to expel intestinal worms that can affect their health.
That's great! Keeping our pets healthy is so important.
Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
deworming
parasitic
vermifuge
Antonyms
infesting
infectious
harmful
noun
Definition
A substance that kills or helps remove parasitic worms from the body.
Example
The doctor prescribed an anthelmintic to treat the patient's intestinal infection.
Conversation
Have you ever heard of an anthelmintic?
Yeah, it's something that helps get rid of worms, right?
Exactly! I read that it's really important for keeping pets healthy.
Root Explanation
Anthelmintic is formed from "anti-" (meaning against) and "helminth" (from Greek "helminthos", meaning worm) and the suffix "-ic" (meaning pertaining to). The word describes a substance that is used to combat or eliminate worms, particularly parasitic ones, in the body.
Memory Tip
Think of 'anti-' meaning against and 'helminth' referring to worms — this helps you remember that an anthelmintic is something that works against worms.
Visually Confused Words
antihelminthic
enthelminthic
helminthic
atelomitic
platyhelminthic