Definition

A white, odorless crystalline substance used to treat bacterial infections.

Example

The doctor prescribed sulfanilamide to help fight the infection.

Conversation

Have you heard about sulfanilamide?

Yeah, I read it’s used to treat bacterial infections.

I was surprised to learn it’s the parent compound for many drugs.

It’s fascinating how one substance can lead to so many treatments!

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Sulfanilamide is formed from "sulfa-" (derived from sulfur, meaning a chemical element) and "anil" (from aniline, a compound derived from coal tar, meaning a type of organic compound) and "-amide" (meaning a compound derived from ammonia). The word refers to a compound that contains sulfur and is related to aniline, specifically an amide derivative.

Memory Tip

Think of 'sulfa' as relating to sulfur, and 'anil' as a type of organic compound, combined with '-amide' which indicates a connection to ammonia. This helps you remember that sulfanilamide is a compound involving sulfur and an organic structure.

Visually Confused Words