oxytocic
Upper-Intermediate (B2)
IPA: /ˌɒksɪˈtoʊsɪk/
KK: /ɑkˈsɪtɒsɪk/
adjective
Definition
A term used to describe substances that help speed up childbirth by causing the uterus to contract.
Example
The doctor administered an oxytocic to help with the delivery of the baby.
Conversation
Did you hear about that new oxytocic medication they’re using in hospitals?
Yeah, I read it can really help with speeding up labor.
Exactly! It seems like a game-changer for many expecting mothers.
For sure, anything that can make childbirth easier is a good thing.
Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
parturient
labor-inducing
contraction-stimulating
Antonyms
tocolytic
relaxant
inhibitory
noun
Definition
A substance that stimulates contractions of the uterus, often used to induce labor or control bleeding after childbirth.
Example
The doctor administered an oxytocic to help with the delivery process.
Conversation
Did you hear about the oxytocic drug they're using in hospitals now?
Yeah, I read that it helps during childbirth.
Exactly! It’s supposed to make the process smoother for everyone involved.
Root Explanation
Oxytocic is formed from "oxy-" (from Greek "oxus", meaning sharp or quick) and "tocic" (from Greek "tokos", meaning childbirth). The word refers to a substance that stimulates quick or sharp contractions during childbirth.
Memory Tip
Think of 'sharp' or 'quick' ('oxy-') related to 'childbirth' ('tocic') — that's why oxytocic refers to something that helps speed up labor.
Visually Confused Words
oxyntic