Another Word For Palliative

Meaning

The word "palliative" refers to something that alleviates symptoms or makes a situation more bearable without addressing the underlying cause. It is commonly used in medical contexts, particularly relating to care for patients with serious or terminal illnesses. Palliative care focuses on providing relief from pain and other distressing symptoms, improving the quality of life for patients and their families.

Synonyms

• Alleviating
• Soothing
• Comforting
• Relieving
• Mitigating

Antonyms

• Aggravating
• Exacerbating
• Intensifying
• Worsening

Etymology

The term "palliative" comes from the Latin word "palliativus," which means "to cloak" or "to cover." This relates to the idea of covering up symptoms rather than curing the underlying issue. The root word "palliare" means "to cover or cloak."

Examples

1. The doctors recommended palliative care to manage the patient's pain as they underwent treatment.
2. While the medication was not a cure, it served a palliative purpose by easing the symptoms.
3. The hospice provided palliative support to the family during their difficult times.
4. Palliative measures can significantly improve a person's quality of life, even in the face of a terminal illness.