demulcent
Intermediate (B1)
IPA: /dɪˈmʌlsənt/
KK: /dɪˈmʌlsənt/
adjective
Definition
Having a soothing or softening effect, often used to describe substances that relieve irritation or discomfort.
Example
The demulcent properties of the herbal tea helped to calm her sore throat.
Conversation
I tried that new lotion you recommended, and it felt so soothing.
I knew you'd love it! It's really demulcent for dry skin.
Yeah, I can definitely feel the difference after using it.
Exactly! It's great for calming irritation, too.
Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
soothing
softening
calming
Antonyms
irritating
harsh
abrasive
noun
Definition
A substance that is smooth and soothing, often used to relieve pain in irritated or inflamed areas of the body, especially in mucous membranes.
Example
The doctor recommended a demulcent to help soothe her sore throat.
Conversation
I heard you were feeling under the weather, what happened?
Yeah, I have a really sore throat right now.
Have you tried using a demulcent to soothe it?
Root Explanation
Demulcent → It is formed from "de-" (meaning down or away) and "mulgere" (meaning to milk). The word describes a substance that soothes or softens, akin to how milking can soothe or relieve discomfort.
Memory Tip
Think of a substance that 'soothes' ('de-' means down or away, and 'mulgere' means to milk') — that's why demulcent refers to something that softens or relieves irritation.
Visually Confused Words
temulent
emulgent
dulcet
dement
decent