noun

paracetamol

pa-ruh-SEHT-uhm-ol

Paracetamol (noun) means a common over-the-counter drug used to relieve pain and reduce fever (known as acetaminophen in the US). Example: “Take two paracetamol tablets for the headache.”

noun

A common over-the-counter drug used to relieve pain and reduce fever (known as acetaminophen in the US).

"Take two paracetamol tablets for the headache."

"Doctors recommend paracetamol over aspirin for children with fevers."

How to use paracetamol

Learner’s notes

In plain EnglishA widely used painkiller and fever reducer.

UK vs US

Called "paracetamol" in the UK and most of the world, but "acetaminophen" (or brand name Tylenol) in the US.

Easily confused with

acetaminophen →

Word forms

paracetamols plural

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Fill the gap

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Take two _____ tablets for the headache.

Etymology

A shortened form of the chemical name para-acetylaminophenol.

Frequently asked questions

What does “paracetamol” mean?

The word “paracetamol” means a common over-the-counter drug used to relieve pain and reduce fever (known as acetaminophen in the US). In plain terms, a widely used painkiller and fever reducer.

How do you pronounce “paracetamol”?

“Paracetamol” is pronounced pa-ruh-SEHT-uhm-ol (/ˌpɛɹ.əˈsiː.təˌmɔl/ in IPA).

How do you use “paracetamol” in a sentence?

Here is “paracetamol” used in a sentence: “Take two paracetamol tablets for the headache.”

What part of speech is “paracetamol”?

“Paracetamol” is a noun.