poultice
Intermediate (B1)
IPA: /ˈpoʊltɪs/
KK: /ˈpoʊltɪs/
noun
Definition
A soft, moist mixture that is applied to the skin to help heal wounds or relieve pain.
Example
The doctor recommended using a poultice to soothe the sore muscle.
Conversation
I heard that a poultice can help with sore muscles after a workout.
Really? How do you make one?
You just mix some herbs with warm water and apply it to the area.
That sounds easy! I might try it next time I'm sore.
Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
cataplasm
compress
dressing
Antonyms
dryness
bandaid
remedy
transitive verb
Definition
A soft, moist mass applied to the body to relieve soreness or inflammation.
Example
The doctor advised her to poultice the wound with a warm compress.
Tense Forms
Past: poulticed
Past Participle: poulticed
Conversation
I heard you had a sore muscle; did you try anything for it?
Yeah, I made a poultice with some herbs from my garden.
That sounds interesting! How do you poultice it on?
Root Explanation
Poultice → It originates from the Latin word 'puls' (meaning porridge or thick soup) and the suffix '-ice' (indicating a noun). A poultice is a soft, moist mass applied to the body to relieve soreness or inflammation, reminiscent of a thick, soothing mixture.
Memory Tip
Think of a thick 'porridge' ('puls') that is applied to soothe aches — that's what a poultice does.
Visually Confused Words
police
unpoulticed
politic
policed