antihistaminic
Intermediate (B1)
IPA: /ˌæn.tiˈhɪs.təˌmɪ.nɪk/
KK: /ˌæntiˈhɪstəˌmɪnɪk/
adjective
Definition
Relating to substances that counteract the effects of histamines in the body, often used to relieve allergy symptoms.
Example
The doctor prescribed an antihistaminic medication to help with my seasonal allergies.
Conversation
I just picked up some antihistaminic medicine for my allergies.
Oh, really? I heard those can be quite effective.
Yeah, I hope it helps because I've been sneezing all week.
I’m sure it will! Just make sure to take it before the pollen hits.
Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
allergic
histaminic
antiallergic
Antonyms
allergic
nonallergic
unresponsive
noun
Definition
A type of drug that helps relieve allergy symptoms by blocking the effects of histamine in the body.
Example
The doctor prescribed an antihistaminic to help with my seasonal allergies.
Conversation
I’ve been feeling really stuffy lately, do you have any recommendations?
You might want to try an antihistaminic; they usually help with allergies.
That sounds like a good idea, I’ll check if I have some at home.
Root Explanation
Antihistaminic is formed from "anti-" (meaning against) and "histamin" (from Greek "histamine", meaning a compound involved in local immune responses). The word refers to a substance that works against histamine, typically used to alleviate allergic reactions.
Memory Tip
Think of 'anti-' meaning against, and 'histamine' as the compound that causes allergic reactions. This helps you remember that antihistaminic refers to something that works against those reactions.
Visually Confused Words
histaminic