ipecac

[ ip-i-kak ]

noun

1. the dried root of a shrubby South American plant, Cephaelis ipecacuanha, of the madder family.
2. the plant itself.
3. a drug consisting of the dried roots of this plant, used as an emetic, purgative, etc., and as the source of emetine.

Word History and Origins

Origin of ipecac¹

1780–90, Americanism; short for ipecacuanha < Portuguese < Tupi ipekaaguéne, equivalent to ipeh low + kaâ leaves + guéne vomit

Example Sentences

Indeed there is something effluvial about the entire book, as if the #MeToo movement provided her, narratively speaking, with a stiff dose of ipecac syrup.

From New York Times

After some ipecac and a round of vomiting that would be right at home in a Mel Brooks comedy, he’s fine.

From New York Times

But attaching a measure of that dimension and size to a stopgap spending bill could also be the political equivalent of syrup of ipecac.

From Fox News

On it were items such as ipecac syrup, a crank radio and a whistle.

From Washington Post

Yes, if you swallow some poison and can’t any ipecac, kale pesto works well.

From Seattle Times