antidepressant
Intermediate (B1)
IPA: /ˌæn.ti.dɪˈprɛs.ənt/
KK: /ˌæntiˈdɪprɛsənt/
adjective
Definition
This term describes something that helps to reduce or prevent feelings of sadness or depression.
Example
The doctor prescribed an antidepressant medication to help improve her mood.
Conversation
I've been feeling a bit down lately, and I'm considering an antidepressant to help.
That sounds like a good idea if you think it will help you feel better.
Yeah, I've heard they can really make a difference for some people.
Absolutely, just make sure to talk to your doctor about it.
Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
uplifting
cheerful
soothing
Antonyms
depressing
sad
gloomy
noun
Definition
A type of medicine that helps to improve mood and reduce feelings of sadness or depression.
Example
The doctor prescribed an antidepressant to help manage her depression.
Conversation
Have you ever tried taking an antidepressant for your mood swings?
No, I haven't, but I've heard they can really help some people.
Yeah, I read that an antidepressant can make a big difference in how you feel.
Root Explanation
Antidepressant is formed from "anti-" (meaning against) and "depress" (from Latin "deprimere", meaning to press down) and "-ant" (a suffix used to form adjectives or nouns indicating an agent). The word refers to a substance that acts against depression by alleviating its symptoms.
Memory Tip
Think of 'anti-' meaning against and 'depress' meaning to press down — an antidepressant is something that works against the feeling of being pressed down by depression.
Visually Confused Words
depressant