clinical trial

noun

: a scientifically controlled study of the safety and effectiveness of a therapeutic agent (such as a drug or vaccine) using consenting human subjects

Examples of clinical trial in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
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Studies of people with cancer have previously found that those taking daily low-dose aspirin have a reduction in the spread of some cancers, such as breast, bowel, and prostate cancers, leading to ongoing clinical trials. Tommy Tuberville, Newsweek, 6 Mar. 2025 The process typically takes 10 to 15 years and requires extensive testing, regulatory approval, and clinical trials before a drug can enter the market. Molly Peck, USA TODAY, 4 Mar. 2025 Originally used for late-stage treatment, CAR-T is now being offered earlier, thanks in part to clinical trials. Oumou Fofana, Essence, 27 Feb. 2025 The clinical trial was supported by funding from the National Institutes of Health. Maya Goldman, Axios, 26 Feb. 2025 See All Example Sentences for clinical trial

Word History

First Known Use

1946, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of clinical trial was in 1946

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Cite this Entry

“Clinical trial.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/clinical%20trial. Accessed 13 Mar. 2025.

Medical Definition

clinical trial

noun
: a scientifically controlled study of the safety and effectiveness of a therapeutic agent (as a drug or vaccine) using consenting human subjects

More from Merriam-Webster on clinical trial

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