Anodyne

Monday, November 17, 2025
Word of the Day

What is Anodyne?

adjective
Not likely to provoke dissent or offense; blandly agreeable; (noun) a painkilling drug or medicine.

Pronunciation

US pronunciation: /ˈæn.əˌdaɪn/
UK pronunciation: /ˈæn.ə.daɪn/
Slow pronunciation: AN-uh-dine

Meaning Explained

Anodyne language soothes — and sometimes sedates — by avoiding sharp edges.

Why This Word?

Chosen to examine when comfort helps and when candor is needed.

Examples of Use

Here's how this word appears in everyday language:

  • He reached for an anodyne metaphor to defuse tension.
  • Low-dose analgesics are anodynes for mild pain.
  • Anodyne platitudes failed to address the scandal.

Word Origins

Greek anōdynos “painless,” from an- (not) + odynē (pain)

Both literal (medicine) and figurative (speech).

First appearance in English: 16th century

Word Family

Related forms of this word:

  • Noun: analgesic

    An analgesic reduced the ache.

  • Adjective: inoffensive

    An inoffensive joke drew smiles.

  • Adjective: banal

    Banal slogans filled the ad.

Around the World

How this word appears in other languages:

  • Spanish: anodino / analgésico
  • French: anodin / analgésique
  • German: harmlos / schmerzstillend
  • Italian: anodino / analgesico
  • Portuguese: anódino / analgésico

If you Already Know This Word

If you've mastered this word, try these more advanced alternatives:

Euphemistic

Softens harsh realities; anodyne avoids provocation.

Placatory

Aims to appease; anodyne is broadly unprovocative.

Trite

Clichéd; anodyne can be original yet gentle.

Fun Facts

  • “Odynophagia” (painful swallowing) shares the root *odynē*.
  • “Anodyne” as a noun peaked in older pharmacopeias.

Cultural Usage

  • Historically, opiates served as anodynes.
  • Critics call some statements anodyne and evasive.

Common Mistakes

Not “aniline” (a chemical); unrelated.

Micro Story

The press release was anodyne, offering solace but little substance.