Anaesthetic
/ˌæn.əsˈθet.ɪk/noun
A drug or substance that causes loss of sensation, often enabling surgery without pain.
Did you know?Its deepest root is Greek aisthanesthai, “to perceive,” linking anaesthetic to the ancient language of sensation, perception, and consciousness.
Etymological Timeline
Ancient Greek
Greek
anaisthētos
“Insensible; lacking perception or sensation”
Ancient Greek
Greek
an-
“Without; not”
Ancient Greek
Greek
aisthanesthai
“To perceive, feel, or understand through the senses”
1846
English
anaesthetic
“A substance producing insensibility, especially for surgical procedures”
Modern English
English
anaesthetic
“A drug or substance that causes loss of sensation”
Explore more surprising origins