ENGLISH
REFERENCE

homeopathy

n.
C1 Advanced US //ˌhoʊmioʊˈpæθi// UK //hˌəʊmiːˈɒpəθi// home·opa·thy
Definition

n. a system of medicine that uses very small amounts of a substance to treat the same symptoms it causes in a healthy person. It is based on the idea that 'like cures like'.

n. a system of alternative medicine based on the principle of 'like cures like', where a substance that causes symptoms in a healthy person is used in diluted form to treat those same symptoms in a sick person.


SIMPLE

Some people prefer homeopathy to traditional medicine.

CONTEXTUAL

The clinic offers a range of treatments, including homeopathy and herbal remedies, for those seeking natural alternatives.

COMPLEX

While homeopathy remains a popular choice for many patients, the scientific community remains skeptical due to the lack of evidence supporting its efficacy beyond a placebo effect.

Origin

From German Homöopathie, equivalent to English homeo- + -pathy.

Etymology adapted from Wiktionary, available under CC BY-SA 4.0.

Last updated May 19, 2026