Anesthesia
/ˌæn.əˈsθiː.ʒə/noun
A state of insensitivity to pain, often induced for surgical procedures.
Did you know?The term 'anesthesia' was coined in the 19th century during a time when the understanding of consciousness and pain was still shrouded in mystery and fear.
Etymological Timeline
Ancient Greek
Greek
ἀναισθησία
“lack of perception or feeling.”
19th Century
English
anesthesia
“the coined term referring to a medical state induced to eliminate sensation.”
Modern English
English
anesthesia
“the practice and study of insensitivity to pain.”
19th Century
English
anesthetic
“substances used to induce anesthesia.”