magic bullet

noun

1. something that cures or remedies without causing harmful side effects:

   So far there is no magic bullet for economic woes.

magic bullet

noun

1. informal.
   any therapeutic agent, esp one in the early stages of development, reputed to be very effective in treating a condition, such as a malignant tumour, by specifically targeting the diseased tissue

Word History and Origins

Origin of magic bullet¹

First recorded in 1965–70

Related Words

• panacea
• wonder drug