Langimage
English

antiacid

|an-tə-sɪd|

B2

🇺🇸

/ˈæn.tə.sɪd/

🇬🇧

/ˈæn.tɪ.sɪd/

(antacid)

neutralize acid

Base FormPlural
antacidantacids
Etymology
Etymology Information

'antacid' originates from Greek and Latin elements: Greek 'anti-' meaning 'against' and Latin 'acidus' meaning 'sour' or 'acid'.

Historical Evolution

'antacid' was coined in English in the late 19th century by combining the prefix 'anti-' with 'acid' to denote a substance acting against acid; the spelling has been standardized as 'antacid', though variants like 'antiacid' have appeared.

Meaning Changes

Initially it meant 'acting against acid (chemically)'; this core meaning has remained stable and is now used chiefly for medicines that neutralize stomach acid.

Meanings by Part of Speech

Noun 1

variant spelling of 'antacid': a substance (often a medicine) that neutralizes excess stomach acid to relieve heartburn or indigestion.

She swallowed an antiacid after dinner because her heartburn got worse.

Synonyms

Antonyms

Adjective 1

variant spelling of 'antacid' used adjectivally: having the property of neutralizing acid (especially stomach acid).

He bought an antiacid tablet at the pharmacy to keep in his bag.

Synonyms

Antonyms

Last updated: 2025/08/27 01:35