ibuprofen

noun

ibu·​pro·​fen ˌī-byu̇-ˈprō-fən 

also ī-ˈbyü-prə-fən

: a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug C₁₃H₁₈O₂ used to relieve pain and fever

Examples of ibuprofen in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Many studies have found that mifepristone is as safe as ibuprofen and safer than Viagra. —Naomi Cahn, The Conversation, 6 Feb. 2026

Seven out of every ten competitors took ibuprofen before and/or mid-race to reduce pain and swelling, Nieman and his team found. —Dan England, Outside, 5 Feb. 2026

But turmeric tends to work more slowly, often needing weeks of regular use to show full benefits, whereas ibuprofen works quickly (within hours). —Sara Hoffman, Verywell Health, 4 Feb. 2026

Take acetaminophen or ibuprofen. —Evan Moore, Charlotte Observer, 27 Jan. 2026

Word History

Etymology

is- + butyl + propionic acid + -fen (alteration of phenyl)

First Known Use

1967, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for ibuprofen

• gonadotrophin

Medical Definition

ibuprofen

noun

ibu·​pro·​fen ˌī-byu̇-ˈprō-fən 

: a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug C₁₃H₁₈O₂ used in over-the-counter preparations to relieve pain and fever and in prescription strength especially to relieve the symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis and degenerative arthritis see advil, motrin