Definition

A type of medication that helps open up the airways in the lungs, making it easier to breathe by relaxing the muscles around the bronchial tubes.

Example

The doctor prescribed a bronchodilator to help with my asthma symptoms.

Conversation

I heard you had an asthma attack recently, how are you feeling now?

I'm doing better, thanks! My doctor gave me a bronchodilator to help with my breathing.

That's good to hear! Do you have to use the bronchodilator often?

Not too often, just when I feel short of breath.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Bronchodilator → It is formed from "broncho-" (from Greek "bronchos", meaning windpipe or airway) and "dilator" (from Latin "dilatator", meaning to widen or expand). The word refers to a substance that widens the air passages in the lungs.

Memory Tip

Think of 'broncho-' as relating to the 'airway' and 'dilator' as something that 'widens'. This helps you remember that a bronchodilator is a medication that opens up the airways.

Visually Confused Words