Definition

A method of treating illnesses by giving very small amounts of medicine that would cause similar symptoms in healthy people if taken in larger doses.

Example

Many people believe in the effectiveness of homeopathy for treating allergies.

Conversation

Have you ever tried homeopathy for your allergies?

No, I haven't, but I've heard it can be really effective.

I started using homeopathy last year, and it helped a lot.

That's great to hear! Maybe I should give it a shot.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Homeopathy is formed from "homoios" (meaning similar) and "pathos" (meaning suffering or disease). The term describes a system of medicine that treats diseases by using substances that produce similar symptoms in healthy individuals.

Memory Tip

Think of 'similar' ('homoios') treatments for 'suffering' ('pathos') — that's the essence of homeopathy.

Visually Confused Words