Definition

A plant whose root is used in medicine, especially to make people vomit when they have swallowed poison.

Example

The doctor recommended ipecacuanha to help induce vomiting after the child accidentally ingested a harmful substance.

Conversation

Have you ever heard of ipecacuanha?

Yeah, I think it’s used for medicinal purposes, right?

Exactly! I heard it can be really effective as an emetic.

That’s interesting! I didn’t know it had such strong properties.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Ipecacuanha originates from the Tupi language, where 'ipecac' means 'the root that makes you vomit' and 'uanha' means 'to vomit'. The word refers to a plant used for its emetic properties, inducing vomiting.

Memory Tip

Think of the Tupi word 'ipecac' meaning 'the root that makes you vomit' — this helps you remember that ipecacuanha is a plant used to induce vomiting.

Visually Confused Words