Digitalis

/ˌdɪdʒɪˈtælɪs/

Meaning & Definition

noun

A genus of flowering plants in the family Plantaginaceae, commonly known as foxgloves, some species of which are used medicinally to treat heart conditions.

Digitalis is often prescribed for patients with congestive heart failure.

A drug derived from the digitalis plant, used in the treatment of certain heart conditions.

The doctor adjusted the dosage of digitalis based on her heart rate.

Refers to any of the various species of plants within the genus Digitalis.

In the garden, the digitalis blooms added a beautiful array of purple flowers.

Etymology

From Latin, meaning 'of the finger', referring to the shape of the flower.

Common Phrases and Expressions

digitalis therapy

Treatment involving the use of digitalis for heart conditions.

digitalis effect

The physiological impact that digitalis has on heart function.

Related Words

cardiac glycosides

A class of organic compounds that increase the output force of the heart and decrease its rate.

foxglove

A common name for plants in the Digitalis genus.

Slang Meanings

A term for heart medications in general.

He's on some strong digitalis.

Used informally to refer to any powerful medicine.

That stuff is pure digitalis, it'll get you back on your feet.