Palliative
Relieving or soothing symptoms without curing the underlying disease; intended to reduce pain, distress, or discomfort.
adjectivePalliative
Relieving or soothing symptoms without curing the underlying disease; intended to reduce pain, distress, or discomfort.
adjectiveImagine This
Imagine a patient with a serious illness who receives a gentle combination of pain relief, comforting touch, and soothing surroundings. The care eases suffering and improves comfort, but it does not cure the illness.
Sounds Like
PAL-ee-ate
Looks Like
Looks like palliate and pallid; shares the root 'pall' (cloak)
Remember This
Palliative care focuses on comfort and quality of life. It can accompany curative treatment or stand alone in end-of-life care; the opposite is curative.
Other Forms
Connect With
curative, hospice, comfort care, alleviation, symptomatic treatment
Note
Often used in medical contexts (e.g., palliative care, palliative measures). It does not mean 'preventive' or 'curative' treatment. Be careful not to imply that palliative care cures the disease.