Definition

A substance that helps to reduce or eliminate pain in the body.

Example

After the surgery, the doctor prescribed a painkiller to help manage the discomfort.

Conversation

I have a terrible headache today.

Have you taken any painkiller yet?

Not yet, I was hoping it would go away on its own.

You should definitely take a painkiller if it doesn't improve.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Painkiller → It is formed from "pain" (from Old French *peine*, meaning suffering or discomfort) and "killer" (from Old English *cyning*, meaning to cause death or to end). The word "painkiller" refers to something that ends or alleviates suffering or discomfort.

Memory Tip

Think of something that 'ends' ('killer') your 'suffering' ('pain') — that's what a painkiller does.

Visually Confused Words