Definition

A type of medicine used to relieve mild pain and reduce fever.

Example

I took a paracetamol to help with my headache.

Conversation

I have a terrible headache; do you have any paracetamol?

Yeah, I think I have some in my bag.

Thanks! I always feel better after taking paracetamol.

It really works wonders for me too.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Paracetamol is derived from "para-" (meaning alongside or beyond) and "acetaminophen" (which itself comes from "acetyl" (meaning derived from acetic acid) and "aminophenol" (meaning an amine group attached to a phenol). The word refers to a compound that is a derivative of acetic acid and an amine phenol, used primarily as a pain reliever and fever reducer.

Memory Tip

Think of 'para-' meaning alongside, and 'acetaminophen' as a compound derived from acetic acid and an amine phenol — this helps you remember that paracetamol is a medication used for pain relief.

Visually Confused Words