Definition

Relating to a substance that causes a mild irritation to relieve pain or discomfort in another area of the body.

Example

The doctor recommended a counterirritant cream to help soothe the pain in my muscles.

Conversation

I heard that peppermint oil can act as a counterirritant for muscle pain.

Really? I didn’t know that essential oils could help with soreness.

Yeah, it’s interesting how some natural remedies have that counterirritant effect.

I might give it a try next time I feel tense after working out.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Definition

A substance that causes mild irritation or inflammation on the skin to help relieve pain or inflammation in deeper tissues.

Example

The doctor recommended a counterirritant to help ease the pain in my back.

Conversation

I heard using a counterirritant can help with muscle pain.

Really? How does that work?

It creates a mild irritation that distracts from the deeper pain.

Root Explanation

Counterirritant → It is formed from "counter-" (meaning against) and "irritant" (from Latin "irritare", meaning to provoke or stimulate). The word describes a substance that provokes a response in the body to relieve pain or discomfort in another area.

Memory Tip

Think of something that works 'against' ('counter-') a 'provoking' ('irritant') sensation to help relieve discomfort.

Visually Confused Words