warfarin

noun

war·​fa·​rin ˈwȯr-fə-rən 

: a crystalline anticoagulant coumarin derivative C₁₉H₁₆O₄ that inhibits the production of prothrombin by vitamin K and is used as a rodent poison and in medicine

also : its sodium salt C₁₉H₁₅NaO₄ used especially in the prevention or treatment of thromboembolic disease

Examples of warfarin in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Due to its similarity, CoQ10 may interact with enzymes, potentially counteracting the effect of warfarin. —Ayesha Gulzar, Verywell Health, 12 Nov. 2025

Use ginger cautiously or avoid it when taking anticoagulants like Coumadin (warfarin) or anti-platelet medications. —Lauren O'Connor, Health, 21 Oct. 2025

Common blood thinners include warfarin, heparin, apixaban, rivaroxaban and dabigatran. —Daryl Austin, USA Today, 5 Aug. 2025

Word History

Etymology

Wisconsin Alumni Research Foundation (its patentee) + coumarin

First Known Use

1950, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for warfarin

• sarin

Medical Definition

warfarin

noun

war·​fa·​rin ˈwȯr-fə-rən 

: a crystalline anticoagulant coumarin derivative C₁₉H₁₆O₄ related to dicumarol that inhibits the production of prothrombin by vitamin K and is used as a rodent poison and in medicine

also : its sodium salt C₁₉H₁₅NaO₄ used especially in the prevention or treatment of thromboembolic disease see coumadin