Definition

A medication used to relieve allergy symptoms and as a sleep aid by blocking histamine effects in the body.

Example

She took diphenhydramine to help her sleep during the flight.

Conversation

I've been having trouble sleeping lately, do you think I should try diphenhydramine?

It might help, but you should check with a doctor first.

Yeah, I just want something to knock me out for a few hours.

Totally understandable, just make sure it's safe for you.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Diphenhydramine is formed from "di-" (meaning two), "phenyl" (from the Greek "phaino", meaning to show or appear, referring to the phenyl group in chemistry), and "hydramine" (from "hydro-" meaning water and "amine" referring to a type of organic compound). The word describes a compound that contains two phenyl groups and is related to amines, often used as an antihistamine.

Memory Tip

Think of 'two' ('di-') phenyl groups that 'show' ('phaino') up in a compound related to 'water' ('hydro-') and 'amines'. This helps you remember that diphenhydramine is a chemical compound with these features.

Visually Confused Words