- Today's Word
Panacea
pan-uh-SEE-uh
Definition
- (noun) A solution or remedy for all problems, difficulties, or diseases; a universal cure.
Example
While renewable energy is a significant step forward, it is not a panacea for all environmental challenges.
Fun Fact
“Panacea” originates from the Greek word panakeia, which combines pan- (“all”) and akos (“remedy”). In Greek mythology, Panacea was the goddess of healing and daughter of Asclepius, the god of medicine. The term entered English during the 16th century to describe the mythical “universal cure” sought by alchemists and physicians. Although no such cure exists, the word has endured as a metaphor for overly simplistic solutions to complex problems.
(verb) To obtain something by persuasion, scheming, or clever manipulation.
He managed to wangle an invitation to the exclusive event through a friend of a friend.
Late 19th century: originally printers’ slang, possibly an alteration of “waggle” meaning “to move unsteadily,” suggesting indirect or roundabout methods.