Definition

A type of medicine that helps to calm people down and relieve anxiety. It is often used to treat tension and can also help with muscle relaxation and seizures.

Example

The doctor prescribed diazepam to help manage her anxiety before the surgery.

Conversation

Have you ever heard of diazepam?

Yeah, I think it's used for anxiety, right?

Exactly! My doctor suggested it to help me relax.

That sounds helpful; I've heard it can be really effective.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Diazepam is formed from "dia-" (meaning through or across) and "zepam" (derived from the chemical structure of the compound, specifically related to the benzodiazepine class of drugs). The word refers to a medication that acts across the nervous system to produce calming effects.

Memory Tip

Think of 'dia-' meaning 'through' and how diazepam works by acting through the nervous system to help calm anxiety.

Visually Confused Words