WordValeantidote
a substance that counteracts a poison
In more detail
1. (noun) a substance that counteracts the effects of poison
2. (noun) something that relieves or prevents something unpleasant
Examples
- 1. The doctor quickly gave the patient an antidote after the snake bite.
- 2. A good vacation is an antidote to stress.
How to use antidote
Antidote is used literally for a medical substance that neutralizes poison, but is also used figuratively for anything that counteracts or relieves something negative. The figurative sense often appears in the phrase 'antidote to,' as in 'exercise is an antidote to depression.' It differs from cure in that an antidote specifically opposes or neutralizes harm, whereas a cure restores health more broadly.
Common phrases
- antidote to
- effective antidote
- find an antidote
- administer an antidote
- serve as an antidote
Synonyms
cure · remedy · counter-measure · solution · corrective
Opposites
poison · toxin
Word family
antidotal (adjective)
A common mistake
Learners sometimes confuse antidote with antibiotic; an antidote counters poison or harm, while an antibiotic fights bacterial infection.
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