Definition

A bitter substance found in the bark of certain trees, used in medicine for its pain-relieving properties.

Example

Salicin is extracted from willow bark and has been used for its medicinal benefits.

Conversation

Have you ever heard of salicin?

I think I've read about it somewhere, but I don't remember much.

It's actually found in the bark of willow trees and was used for pain relief.

That sounds interesting! I had no idea it had such a history.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Salicin is derived from the Latin word "salix" (meaning willow), referring to the willow tree from which salicin was first isolated. The suffix "-in" is commonly used in chemistry to denote substances, particularly those derived from plants. Thus, salicin refers to a substance derived from the willow tree.

Memory Tip

Think of the willow tree ('salix') when remembering that salicin is a substance derived from it.

Visually Confused Words