First Known Use: 1649
Dictionary
1tonic
adjective ton·ic \ˈtä-nik\
Definition of TONIC
1
a : characterized by tonus <tonic contraction of muscle>; also : marked by prolonged muscular contraction <tonic convulsions> b : producing or adapted to produce healthy muscular condition and reaction of organs (as muscles)
2
a : increasing or restoring physical or mental tone : refreshing b : yielding a tonic substance
3
: relating to or based on the first tone of a scale <tonic harmony>
4
of a syllable : bearing a principal stress or accent
5
: of or relating to speech tones or to languages using them to distinguish words otherwise identical
— ton·i·cal·ly \ˈtä-ni-k(ə-)lē\ adverb
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Origin of TONIC
Greek tonikos, from tonos tension, tone
Related to TONIC
- Synonyms
- bracing, cordial, invigorating, refreshing, rejuvenating, restorative, reviving, stimulating, stimulative, vital, vitalizing
- Antonyms
- insalubrious, noxious, unhealthful, unhealthy, unwholesome
Other Pharmacology Terms
2tonic
noun
: a type of water that has bubbles in it, has a bitter taste, and is often used in alcoholic drinks
: something that makes you feel healthier and more relaxed
: a medicine that brings you back to a normal physical or mental condition
Full Definition of TONIC
1
: the first tone of a major or minor scale : keynote
2
a : an agent (as a drug) that increases body tone b : one that invigorates, restores, refreshes, or stimulates <a day in the country was a tonic for him> c : a liquid preparation for the scalp or hair d chiefly New England : a carbonated flavored beverage e : tonic water
3
: a voiced sound
See tonic defined for English-language learners
First Known Use of TONIC
1797
Other Pharmacology Terms
TONIC Defined for Kids
tonic
noun ton·ic \ˈtä-nik\
Definition of TONIC for Kids
1
: a medicine or preparation for improving the strength or health of mind or body
2
: soda pop Hint:This sense of tonic is used mostly in New England.
3
: the first note of a scale
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