noun
panacea
pan-uh-SEE-uh
Panacea (noun) means a single remedy or solution supposed to fix every problem — usually said sceptically, of something that cannot really do so. Example: “More funding is not a panacea for the whole system.”
noun
1
A single remedy or solution supposed to fix every problem — usually said sceptically, of something that cannot really do so.
"More funding is not a panacea for the whole system."
How to use panacea
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishA single fix that is supposed to solve everything.
When to use it
Usually appears in the negative — "no panacea" — to puncture an overclaim.
Common pairings
no panacea
not a panacea
seen as a panacea
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Etymology
From Greek "panakeia," a universal remedy, from "pan-" (all) plus "akos" (cure). Panacea was also the Greek goddess of healing.
Synonyms
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cure-all
silver bullet
universal remedy
catholicon
nostrum
Rhymes for panacea
See all rhymes for panacea →Frequently asked questions
What does panacea mean?
A supposed cure for everything. In modern use it is nearly always negative — pointing out that something being sold as a complete solution is not one.
What is a synonym for panacea?
Cure-all, silver bullet or universal remedy. "Silver bullet" is the most common everyday equivalent.
What is the meaning of panacea?
"panacea" (noun) means a single remedy or solution supposed to fix every problem — usually said sceptically, of something that cannot really do so.
What is another word for panacea?
Other words for "panacea" include cure-all, silver bullet, universal remedy, catholicon, nostrum.
