Definition, Meaning & Synonyms
patent-medicine
Noun
/ˈpæt.ənt ˈmɛd.ɪ.sɪn/
Definition
A patent medicine is a commercial product that is sold as a remedy for various ailments and is typically characterized by a proprietary name.
Examples
- The old storefront advertised various patent-medicines that promised to cure ailments from headaches to indigestion.
- Many people were drawn to the latest patent-medicine because of its colorful packaging and bold claims.
Meaning
These products often claim to cure, treat, or prevent certain health issues and are marketed without a prescription.
Synonyms
- Quack remedy
- Proprietary medicine
- Over-the-counter remedy
