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

Computer keyboards, lipstick, tennis rackets, pajamas, soft contact lenses, detergent, chewing gum, shoes, crayons, shaving cream, pillows, aspirin, dentures, tape, umbrellas and nylon guitar strings are just a few of them. —Anne D’innocenzio, Los Angeles Times, 22 Apr. 2026

It also should be used with caution in people taking prescription blood thinners, aspirin or NSAID products. —Bestreviews, Chicago Tribune, 14 Apr. 2026

Many drugs, like aspirin and Tylenol, are small molecules that can fit into a protein and change its function. —Benjamin P. Brown, The Conversation, 7 Apr. 2026

The White House has said that the bruises that are periodically visible in photos of the president’s hands are the result of frequent handshaking and taking aspirin for heart health. —Joseph Konig, PEOPLE, 6 Apr. 2026

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