Prophylaxis
/ˌprɒfɪˈlæksɪs/noun
Action taken to prevent disease or another unwanted outcome before it occurs.
Did you know?The Greek root behind prophylaxis also produced “phylactery,” originally meaning a protective charm or amulet before becoming associated with Jewish prayer boxes.
Etymological Timeline
Proto-Indo-European
PIE
*bhelg-
“To protect or defend; a proposed ancestral root associated with Greek forms meaning guard”
Ancient Greek
Greek
phýlax (φύλαξ)
“Guard, watchman, or sentinel”
Ancient Greek
Greek
prophylássein (προφυλάσσειν)
“To guard in advance or take precautions beforehand”
Ancient Greek
Greek
prophýlaxis (προφύλαξις)
“A guarding beforehand; preventive protection”
Late Latin
Latin
prophylaxis
“Preventive protection or precaution”
17th Century
English
prophylaxis
“Prevention of disease or protection against a harmful condition”
Modern English
English
prophylaxis
“Preventive medical treatment or action taken to avert an unwanted outcome”
Explore more surprising origins