Palliate
Verb
Definition: To make (a disease or its symptoms) less severe or unpleasant without removing the cause.
Synonyms: Alleviate, Mitigate, Ease, Relieve
Antonyms: Aggravate, Intensify, Worsen
Examples:
- The doctor prescribed medication to palliate the pain.
- The government's actions are merely an attempt to palliate public concerns.
Mnemonics:
- "Palliate" sounds like "palate", which helps in soothing unpleasant tastes or symptoms.
Etymology:
Origin:
Middle English "paliat", from Latin "palliatus" (cloaked, disguised), from "pallium" (cloak).
Historical Usage:The word "palliate" originated in Middle English and has maintained its meaning of lessening the severity of something over time.
Related Idioms:
Idiom:
"Palliative care"
Explanation:Medical care focused on providing relief from symptoms and improving the quality of life for patients with serious illnesses.
Misconceptions:
Misconception:
Confusing "palliate" with "cure".
Explanation:"Palliate" refers to lessening the severity of symptoms or discomfort, not necessarily eliminating the cause or providing a permanent solution.