Curare

/kʊˈrɑːreɪ/

Meaning & Definition

noun

Curare refers to a group of plant-derived alkaloids used historically as a poison for arrows by indigenous people of South America, and it is known for its muscle-relaxing properties.

The hunters applied curare to their arrows to ensure a swift kill.

Curare is also used in medical contexts to refer to substances that produce paralysis by blocking neuromuscular transmission.

In modern medicine, curare derivatives are utilized in surgical procedures to induce muscle relaxation.

The term curare may also refer to the traditional use of curare in ritualistic practices among certain indigenous cultures.

The ethnobotanist studied the role of curare in the shamanic rituals of the Amazon basin.

Etymology

From the Tupi language 'kurara', meaning 'to kill'.

Common Phrases and Expressions

curare potion

A medicinal preparation that includes curare as an active ingredient.

using curare

Referring to employing curare in any form of treatment or research.

Related Words

d-tubocurarine

A chemical compound derived from curare that acts as a neuromuscular blocker.

arrow poison

A general term for poisons used to envenom arrows, of which curare is a specific type.

Slang Meanings

A method of relaxing or calming someone, often used metaphorically.

After a long day, a good night’s sleep is the best curare.

To incapacitate someone’s ability to act, similar to the effect of curare.

His excuses were like curare, putting a stop to any further arguments.