Definition

Relating to or affecting the neurotransmitter acetylcholine, especially in the nervous system, and having effects similar to those of acetylcholine.

Example

The doctor prescribed a cholinergic drug to help improve the patient's memory.

Conversation

I read that some medications have cholinergic effects on the body.

Really? What does that mean exactly?

It means they can stimulate actions similar to acetylcholine.

Got it! So, they can help with things like digestion and heart rate.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Cholinergic → It is formed from "choline" (from Greek "chole", meaning bile) and "-ergic" (from Greek "ergon", meaning work or activity). The term refers to substances that work or act on the neurotransmitter choline, particularly in relation to the nervous system.

Memory Tip

Think of 'choline' as a key player in the nervous system, and '-ergic' means it works or acts. This helps you remember that 'cholinergic' refers to things that act on choline in the body.

Visually Confused Words