Panacea

Panacea

ˌpanəˈsēə

Noun

  • A solution or remedy for all difficulties or diseases.

Get a new word in your inbox every day.

By subscribing you are agreeing to our Privacy Policy and Terms of Use.

Example Sentences

“Snake oil salesmen offered a panacea to cure all illnesses, but they weren’t real doctors, and the products usually weren’t real medicine.”

“The neighbors have a wishful hope that the new traffic light on our street will be a panacea for the daily congestion.”

“There’s no such thing as a panacea for all of my problems, but taking a walk every day has helped me feel a lot better than I did a year ago.”

Word Origin

Greek, mid-16th century

Why this word?

Alchemists were early chemists who attempted to find a secret method to turn metal into gold. They were also on the hunt for the “elixir of life” — called a “panacea” — that was rumored to solve all illnesses. The answer to all of life’s ills sounds nice, but no such cure-all exists. Today, “panacea” is usually used critically against claims that a suggested solution will fix all of the current issues.

  • More brands you’ll love

    Elevate Your Everyday

    More brands you’ll love

    Elevate Your Everyday

    Subscribe to Better Report to receive tips and tricks that will save you money, maximize your time, and improve your life.

    Subscribe to Better Report
    By clicking “Subscribe” you’re agreeing to Better Report Terms of Use and Privacy Policy

Learn a new word Saudade

souˈdädə