vermifuge
Intermediate (B1)
IPA: /ˈvɜːrmɪfjuːdʒ/
KK: /ˈvɜrmɪfjuːdʒ/
adjective
Definition
Relating to a substance that helps to remove worms from the body, especially from the intestines.
Example
The doctor prescribed a vermifuge to treat the patient's intestinal infection.
Conversation
I heard that some plants have a vermifuge effect on pets.
Really? That's interesting! How does that work?
They help get rid of intestinal worms, which is pretty useful.
That sounds like a natural way to keep them healthy.
Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
anthelmintic
deworming
expulsive
Antonyms
nonanthelmintic
ineffective
useless
noun
Definition
A type of medicine that helps to remove or kill worms that live in the intestines.
Example
The doctor prescribed a vermifuge to treat the child's intestinal worms.
Conversation
Have you ever heard of a vermifuge?
No, what's that?
It's a medicine that helps get rid of intestinal worms.
Root Explanation
Vermifuge → It is formed from "vermis" (from Latin, meaning worm) and "fugare" (from Latin, meaning to drive away). The word "vermifuge" refers to a substance that drives away or expels worms from the body.
Memory Tip
Think of a medicine that 'drives away' ('fugare') 'worms' ('vermis') — that's why vermifuge means a remedy for expelling worms.
Visually Confused Words
germifuge