thrombolytic
Upper-Intermediate (B2)
IPA: //θrɒm.bəˈlɪt.ɪk//
KK: /θrɑmboʊˈlɪtɪk/
adjective
Definition
Relating to the process of breaking down blood clots in the body.
Example
The doctor prescribed a thrombolytic medication to help dissolve the blood clot.
Conversation
Did you hear about the new thrombolytic treatment they're using for heart attacks?
Yeah, I read that it can really help break up clots quickly.
It's amazing how far medicine has come with these thrombolytic therapies.
Absolutely! It gives so many people a better chance of recovery.
Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
clot-busting
dissolving
decomposing
Antonyms
coagulating
solidifying
forming
noun
Definition
A type of medication used to dissolve blood clots in the body.
Example
The doctor prescribed a thrombolytic to help clear the blockage in the patient's artery.
Conversation
Have you ever heard of a thrombolytic?
Yeah, I think it’s a type of medication, right?
Exactly! It’s used to break down blood clots.
Root Explanation
Thrombolytic → It is formed from "thrombo-" (from Greek "thrombos", meaning clot) and "lytic" (from Greek "lytikos", meaning able to dissolve). The word describes a substance that is able to dissolve blood clots.
Memory Tip
Think of 'clot' ('thrombo-') being 'dissolved' ('lytic') — that's why thrombolytic refers to something that dissolves clots.
Visually Confused Words
thermolytic
chromatolytic