| / English Dictionary |
PROPHYLACTIC
| Pronunciation (US): |  | (GB): | |
I. (noun)
Sense 1
Meaning:
Contraceptive device consisting of a sheath of thin rubber or latex that is worn over the penis during intercourse
Synonyms:
condom; prophylactic; rubber; safe; safety
Classified under:
Nouns denoting man-made objects
Hypernyms ("prophylactic" is a kind of...):
birth control device; contraceptive; contraceptive device; preventative; preventive; prophylactic device (an agent or device intended to prevent conception)
Derivation:
prophylactic (capable of preventing conception or impregnation)
Sense 2
Meaning:
Remedy that prevents or slows the course of an illness or disease
Example:
the doctor recommended several preventatives
Synonyms:
preventative; preventive; prophylactic
Classified under:
Nouns denoting man-made objects
Hypernyms ("prophylactic" is a kind of...):
curative; cure; remedy; therapeutic (a medicine or therapy that cures disease or relieve pain)
Derivation:
prophylactic (preventing or contributing to the prevention of disease)
II. (adjective)
Sense 1
Meaning:
Preventing or contributing to the prevention of disease
Example:
a prophylactic drug
Synonyms:
preventative; preventive; prophylactic
Classified under:
Similar:
healthful (conducive to good health of body or mind)
Derivation:
prophylactic (remedy that prevents or slows the course of an illness or disease)
prophylaxis (the prevention of disease)
Sense 2
Meaning:
Warding off
Example:
the swastika...a very ancient prophylactic symbol occurring among all peoples
Synonyms:
cautionary; prophylactic
Classified under:
Similar:
protective (intended or adapted to afford protection of some kind)
Sense 3
Meaning:
Capable of preventing conception or impregnation
Example:
contraceptive devices and medications
Synonyms:
antifertility; contraceptive; prophylactic
Classified under:
Adjectives
Similar:
protective (intended or adapted to afford protection of some kind)
Derivation:
prophylactic (contraceptive device consisting of a sheath of thin rubber or latex that is worn over the penis during intercourse)
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