aspirin

noun

as·​pi·​rin ˈa-sp(ə-)rən 

plural aspirin or aspirins

1

: a white crystalline derivative C₉H₈O₄ of salicylic acid used for relief of pain and fever

2

: a tablet of aspirin

Examples of aspirin in a Sentence

Aspirin is effective in controlling headaches.

Recent Examples on the Web

However, the study’s authors caution against cancer patients beginning an aspirin regimen without talking to their doctor. —Cara Lynn Shultz, People.com, 7 Mar. 2025

For instance, common side effects of overusing aspirin, ibuprofen, and other NSAIDs (or nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs) include peptic ulcers, GI bleeding, acute kidney injury, and even chronic kidney disease. —Dr. Baibing Chen, CNBC, 27 May 2025

Some individuals, particularly those with aspirin sensitivity, may experience allergic reactions or intolerance to tartrazine. —Martha McHardy, MSNBC Newsweek, 29 Mar. 2025

Sometimes, too much functionality can be overkill, like taking a prescription painkiller for a minor headache when an aspirin or two would do the trick. —Tk Keanini, Forbes.com, 29 May 2025

Word History

Etymology

International Scientific Vocabulary, from acetyl + spiraeic acid (former name of salicylic acid), from New Latin Spiraea, genus of shrubs — more at spirea

First Known Use

1899, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Kids Definition

aspirin

noun

as·​pi·​rin ˈas-p(ə-)rən 

1

: a white drug used as a remedy for pain and fever

2

: a tablet of aspirin

Medical Definition

aspirin

noun

as·​pi·​rin ˈas-p(ə-)rən 

plural aspirin or aspirins

1

: a white crystalline derivative C₉H₈O₄ of salicylic acid used for relief of pain and fever

2

: a tablet of aspirin