Definition

A white powder used mainly as a local anesthetic in medical and dental procedures.

Example

The dentist used procaine to numb the area before starting the procedure.

Conversation

I heard that procaine is often used for dental procedures.

Yeah, it’s a common local anesthetic for that.

It’s interesting how they use procaine to numb the area quickly.

Totally! It really helps patients feel more comfortable during treatment.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Procaine is derived from the prefix "pro-" (meaning for or in favor of) and the root "caine" (from the chemical suffix used in local anesthetics, derived from "cocaine"). The word refers to a substance that is used in favor of providing anesthesia, specifically as a local anesthetic.

Memory Tip

Think of 'pro-' meaning for or in favor of, and 'caine' relating to anesthesia. This helps you remember that procaine is a substance used to provide anesthesia.

Visually Confused Words