tonic

B2 · Upper Intermediate Countable noun

n. something that makes you feel happier, stronger, or more energetic.

n. a figurative or literal restorative agent that improves physical or emotional well-being.

“A walk in the fresh air was just the tonic she needed after a long day.”

“The team's unexpected victory served as a much-needed tonic for the city's morale during the economic downturn.”

C1 · Advanced Countable noun Music Technical

n. the first and most important note in a musical scale.

n. the first degree of a major or minor scale, serving as the tonal centre and point of resolution for a composition.

“The song finally returned to the tonic, making the ending feel complete.”

“The composer delayed the resolution to the tonic, creating a sense of tension that lasted throughout the entire bridge.”

C1 · Advanced Literary

adj. having the power to make you feel healthy and full of energy.

adj. possessing restorative or invigorating properties; relating to the restoration of normal tone to the body.

“The cool mountain air had a tonic effect on the tired hikers.”

“The professor found the intellectual challenge of the debate to be quite tonic, revitalising his interest in the subject.”

C2 · Proficiency Medicine Technical

adj. relating to the normal state of tension in your muscles.

adj. relating to or characterised by continuous muscular tension or contraction.

“The doctor checked the patient for a tonic muscle reaction.”

“The patient exhibited a tonic seizure, characterised by a sudden stiffening of the limbs and loss of consciousness.”