Meaning & Definition of word "Morphine"

Morphine

/ˈmɔːrfiːn/

noun:

  • 1. A powerful drug derived from opium used to relieve pain.
    • Example: After surgery, the doctor prescribed morphine to help manage her pain.
  • 2. An addictive narcotic, which can cause physical dependence.
    • Example: Long-term use of morphine can lead to addiction and requires careful monitoring.
  • 3. Morphine is often used in palliative care to ease suffering in terminally ill patients.
    • Example: In hospice care, morphine plays a crucial role in providing comfort to patients.
  • 4. A key ingredient in many pain relief medications due to its efficacy.
    • Example: Morphine is the active ingredient in some over-the-counter pain relievers for severe pain.

Etymology

From Greek 'morphe' meaning 'form' or 'shape' (representing the god of dreams) and 'ine' denoting an alkaloid.

Common Phrases and Expressions

morphine drip:

A method of administering morphine continuously through an IV.

morphine sulfate:

A salt form of morphine used in medications.

morphine addiction:

A condition resulting from the dependence on morphine.

Related Words

opioid:

A class of drugs that includes morphine and is used to treat pain.

analgesic:

A medication that relieves pain without causing loss of consciousness.

opium:

A narcotic drug obtained from the opium poppy, which morphine is derived from.

Slang Meanings of morphine

Meaning: M

Example Sentence: He was looking for some 'M' to cope with his anxiety.

Meaning: God's medicine

Example Sentence: After the accident, they referred to morphine as 'God's medicine' for its potency.