nostrum
noun
A medicine prepared by an unqualified person, especially one not effective; a pet scheme or theory for solving problems.
Etymology
From Latin "nostrum" (our own), short for "nostrum remedium" (our remedy). Quack doctors called their secret formulas "our remedy."
Examples in Use
- 1.
"Politicians peddle economic nostrums that have never worked."
- 2.
"The nostrum promised miraculous cures for all ailments."
- 3.
"Simple nostrums rarely solve complex social problems."
Related Vocabulary
Synonyms
Related Words
Fun Fact
Patent medicines in the 19th century were called nostrums—their formulas kept secret to prevent copying. Many contained alcohol, opiates, or cocaine, making users feel better temporarily while doing real harm.
Word Game Tips
Letters: 7 letters (N, O, S, T, R, U, M)
Scrabble Value: 9 points
Tip: Try building from common prefixes or suffixes when you spot these letters.
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