pro
phy
lac
tic
Plural
prophylactics
1
a thin rubber or latex sheath worn over the penis during sexual intercourse to prevent conception or infection
- He bought a box of prophylactics from the pharmacy.
- The use of a prophylactic reduces the risk of sexually transmitted diseases.
- They were advised to use a prophylactic for safe sex.
- The doctor emphasized the importance of a properly fitted prophylactic.
- Prophylactics are widely available in most drugstores.
2
a drug, vaccine, or treatment used to prevent infection or disease
A prophylactic is a preventive measure used to reduce the risk of disease or infection. It can include medications, treatments, vaccines, or behaviors aimed at protecting individuals from illness before it occurs. Prophylactics are commonly used in healthcare settings, such as giving vaccines to prevent diseases like influenza or providing antibiotics to prevent infection after surgery. It can also involve lifestyle changes, such as maintaining proper hygiene or using protective equipment like masks to prevent the spread of diseases or reduce exposure to germs.
- The vaccine acts as a prophylactic against the virus.
- They researched new prophylactics for influenza prevention.
- Prophylactics are given to prevent infection after surgery.
- She took a malaria prophylactic before traveling abroad.
- Early administration of a prophylactic can stop symptoms from appearing.
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