dose

¹dose

noun \ˈdōs\

Definition of DOSE

1

a : the measured quantity of a therapeutic agent to be taken at one time b : the quantity of radiation administered or absorbed

2

: a portion of a substance added during a process

3

: an amount of something likened to a prescribed or measured quantity of medicine <a daily dose of hard work> <a dose of scandal>

4

: a gonorrheal infection

Examples of DOSE

1. I've been taking the same dose for five years.
2. a large dose of vitamin C
3. The drug is lethal even in small doses.
4. a large dose of sugar
5. a high dose of radiation
6. Her parents hoped a daily dose of hard work would keep her out of trouble.
7. He needs a good dose of reality.

Origin of DOSE

Middle English, from Middle French, from Late Latin dosis, from Greek, literally, act of giving, from didonai to give — more at date

First Known Use: 15th century

Other Pharmacology Terms

anodyne, cathartic, emetic, emollient, liniment, paregoric, poultice, purgative, soporific, spectrum

Rhymes with DOSE

Bose, close, gross, os