aspirin

Etymology

Genericized trademark of German Aspirin, from acetylierte Spirsäure (literally “acetylated spiraeic acid”). The trade name Aspirin is a registered trademark in some countries, but has entered the English language in generic usage, as various German trademarks were nullified in the United States after World War I (see also heroin).

noun

1. (uncountable, pharmacology) an analgesic drug, acetylsalicylic acid
2. (countable) a tablet containing this substance
   It nearly drove me insane. I took heaven alone knows how many aspirins. 1936, F.J. Thwaites, The Redemption, Sydney: H. John Edwards Publishing, published 1940, page 107