Definition

A plant from tropical America whose roots are used to make a medicine that helps induce vomiting, especially in emergencies like poisoning.

Example

The doctor recommended using ipecac syrup to help induce vomiting after the child accidentally swallowed a harmful substance.

Conversation

Have you ever heard of ipecac?

Yeah, I think it's used to make you vomit if you've eaten something bad.

Exactly! It's kind of surprising that something like ipecac exists, right?

Totally! I guess it's good to know about just in case.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Ipecac comes from the Portuguese word 'ipecacuanha', which is derived from the Tupi word 'ipêka' (meaning to vomit) and 'kuan' (meaning root). The term refers to a plant whose root is used as an emetic, inducing vomiting.

Memory Tip

Think of the Tupi word 'ipêka', which means to vomit, to remember that ipecac is used to induce vomiting.

Visually Confused Words