painkiller

noun

pain·​kill·​er ˈpān-ˌki-lər How to pronounce painkiller (audio)
variants or less commonly pain-killer
Synonyms of painkillernext
: something (such as a drug) that relieves pain
pain-killing
ˈpān-ˌki-liŋ How to pronounce painkiller (audio)
adjective
or painkilling

Synonyms of painkiller

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Examples of painkiller in a Sentence

I took some over-the-counter painkillers for my headache. after her oral surgery, she was given a prescription for a mild painkiller
Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
During processing, two opioid painkillers, hydrocodone, were found in Woods’ pocket, and that’s when he was formally accused of DUI and other charges. — Madeleine Marr, Miami Herald, 2 Sep. 2026 The documentary will explore new details about Perry’s private struggles with prescription painkillers and alcohol through firsthand memories from his family and collaborators. — Anthony Solorzano, Los Angeles Times, 1 Sep. 2026 Woods has been involved in multiple car crashes and each time prescription painkillers have been linked to the incidents. — Kyle Feldscher, CNN Money, 1 Sep. 2026 An arrest affidavit said Woods did not pass a field sobriety test and had prescription painkillers in his pocket. — Chantz Martin Outkick, FOXNews.com, 1 Sep. 2026 See All Example Sentences for painkiller

Word History

First Known Use

1849, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of painkiller was in 1849

Rhymes for painkiller

See All Rhymes for painkiller

Browse Nearby Words

painful to the touch
painkiller
painless
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Cite this Entry

“Painkiller.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/painkiller. Accessed 4 Sep. 2026.

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Kids Definition

painkiller

noun
pain·​kill·​er ˈpān-ˌkil-ər How to pronounce painkiller (audio)
: something (as a drug) that relieves pain
painkilling
-iŋ How to pronounce painkiller (audio)
adjective

Medical Definition

painkiller

noun
pain·​kill·​er -ˌkil-ər How to pronounce painkiller (audio)
: something (as a drug) that relieves pain
painkilling
-iŋ How to pronounce painkiller (audio)
adjective
Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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