physic

verb

physicked; physicking
Synonyms of physicnext

transitive verb

1
: to treat with or administer medicine to
especially : purge
2
: heal, cure

Word History

First Known Use

14th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of physic was in the 14th century

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Physic.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/physic. Accessed 10 Jun. 2026.

Kids Definition

physic

noun
phys·​ic
ˈfiz-ik
: a remedy for disease
especially : a strong laxative

Medical Definition

physic

1 of 2 noun
phys·​ic ˈfiz-ik How to pronounce physic (audio)
1
a
: the art or practice of healing disease
b
: the practice or profession of medicine
2
: a medicinal agent or preparation
especially : purgative

physic

2 of 2 transitive verb
physicked; physicking
: to treat with or administer medicine to
especially : purge

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