A substance or drug that destroys or expels parasitic worms from the human or animal body; relating to the treatment of worm infections.
From Greek anti- (against) + helmins (worm) + -ic. The modern spelling crystallized in medical practice during the 19th century as pharmacology became more standardized.
Anthelmintics were humanity's first targeted 'miracle drugs' — substances like quinine and various plant extracts that could specifically kill parasites while leaving the body relatively unharmed, revolutionizing tropical medicine.
Complete word intelligence in one call. Free tier — 50 lookups/day.