ipecac
UK[ˈɪpɪkæk]US[ˈɪpɪkæk]
n
A medicinal preparation made from the dried roots of a South American shrub, used especially as an emetic.
Etymology
The word 'ipecac' is a shortened form of the Portuguese phrase 'ipecacuanha', which itself was borrowed from the Tupi-Guarani term 'ipe-kaa-guéne', literally meaning 'roadside sick-making plant'. This etymology directly reflects the plant's origin and its primary medicinal use. The term entered European medical vocabulary in the 17th century following Portuguese exploration of Brazil. The modern English abbreviation 'ipecac' retains the core association with the plant and its potent emetic properties.
Analysis
The word is a loanword from Portuguese, which adapted it from a Tupi-Guarani indigenous language term. It is not productively formed from classical morphemes within English.
Examples
The doctor recommended a dose of ipecac syrup to induce vomiting after the accidental poisoning.
Ipecacuanha, the source of ipecac, is a creeping plant native to Brazil.
Syrup of ipecac was once a standard item in home first-aid kits.