prophylactic

• Qui concerne les mesures prises pour prévenir une maladie ou se protéger contre quelque chose d'indésirable.

Relating to measures taken to prevent disease or protect against something undesirable.

1. Preventing diseaseC1formalmedical

   Intended to prevent or protect against disease.

   Préventif

   • The doctor recommended a prophylactic treatment to prevent infection.
   • Prophylactic measures include vaccination and regular hand washing.
   • She took prophylactic antibiotics before the surgery.

   Synonymespreventativepreventiveprotective

2. Preventing pregnancyC1formalmedical

   Capable of preventing conception or impregnation.

   contraceptif (prévenant la conception)

   • Condoms are a common prophylactic device.
   • The clinic provides information on various prophylactic methods.
   • Prophylactic measures for birth control are widely available.

   Synonymesbirth controlcontraceptive

   Antonymesfertile

3. Warding off harmC2formal

   Serving to protect or guard against potential harm or danger.

   Prophylactique (protecteur)

   • The government implemented prophylactic policies to avert an economic crisis.
   • He took prophylactic steps to secure his online accounts.
   • Prophylactic diplomacy can prevent conflicts before they escalate.

   Synonymesdefensiveprecautionarypreventativepreventiveprotective

   Antonymesdangerousdetrimentalharmfulinjuriousnoxiouspernicious

• Nom désignant une mesure ou un moyen préventif contre les maladies, ou un dispositif contraceptif utilisé lors des rapports sexuels.

A noun referring to a preventive measure or remedy that guards against disease, or a contraceptive device worn during intercourse.

1. Preventive remedyC1formalmedical

   A treatment or measure taken to prevent or slow the progression of a disease or illness.

   Remède préventif

   • The doctor prescribed a prophylactic to reduce the risk of infection.
   • Taking vitamins can act as a prophylactic against certain deficiencies.
   • Malaria prophylactics are recommended for travelers to tropical regions.

   Synonymesprecautionpreventativepreventiveprophylaxissafeguard

2. Contraceptive deviceB2formalmedical

   A barrier device, typically made of thin rubber or latex, worn on the penis during sexual intercourse to prevent pregnancy and reduce the risk of sexually transmitted infections.

   Préservatif

   • He always uses a prophylactic to protect against STIs.
   • Prophylactics are widely available at pharmacies and clinics.
   • The use of a prophylactic is an effective method of birth control.

   Synonymescondomjohnnyprophylactic deviceprotectorrubbersafety