physic
UK[ˈfɪzɪk]US[ˈfɪzɪk]
n
An archaic term for a medicine, especially a purgative or laxative.
v
To treat with or administer a medicine, especially a purgative; to cure or heal.
Morpheme Breakdown
phys
ic
phys
nature
ic
adjective suffix
Etymology
The word 'physic' traces its lineage to the ancient Greek concept of 'physis', which encompassed the natural world, growth, and the inherent qualities of things. In medieval and early modern English, this connection to nature was channeled into the realm of medicine, as healing was seen as working with or restoring the natural state of the body. Consequently, 'physic' came to denote the art of medicine itself and, more specifically, the medicinal substances used in its practice. Over time, this term was largely superseded by 'physics' for the study of nature and 'medicine' for the curative art, leaving 'physic' as an archaic relic.
Analysis
Structure: phys (nature) + ic (adjective suffix)
'phys' originates from Greek 'physis' (nature, growth). 'ic' is a suffix from Greek '-ikos', used to form adjectives meaning "of or pertaining to".
Examples
The old doctor prepared a powerful physic from herbs in his garden.
In Shakespeare's plays, characters often speak of being "physicked" for their ailments.
The term "physic garden" historically referred to a garden dedicated to growing medicinal plants.