ibuprofen

noun

ibu·​pro·​fen ˌī-byu̇-ˈprō-fən 

 also  ī-ˈbyü-prə-fən

: a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug C₁₃H₁₈O₂ used to relieve pain and fever

Examples of ibuprofen in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Pain relievers like Advil (ibuprofen) or Tylenol (acetaminophen) can also help.10 Physical therapy (PT) can also help with more serious strains, but only after the area heals. —Ruth Jessen Hickman, Health, 9 Jan. 2025

Combination acetaminophen, aspirin, and caffeine medications, such as Excedrin Motrin or Advil (ibuprofen) Tylenol (acetaminophen) Excess Analgesic Use Though effective in temporarily easing pain, OTC pain relievers aren’t intended for long-term use. —Mark Gurarie, Verywell Health, 8 Jan. 2025

No, unlike other common pain relief medications (think aspirin, ibuprofen and naproxen), Tylenol isn’t an NSAID (nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug). —Caroline C. Boyle, USA TODAY, 6 Jan. 2025

Some evidence suggests that a light fever may even fortify an immune response; so in principle, slightly elevated temperatures should be left alone unless your child is uncomfortable, in which case, maybe ibuprofen? —Daniel Engber, The Atlantic, 3 Jan. 2025

Word History

Etymology

is- + butyl + propionic acid + -fen (alteration of phenyl)

First Known Use

1967, in the meaning defined above

Medical Definition

ibuprofen

noun

ibu·​pro·​fen ˌī-byu̇-ˈprō-fən 

: a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug C₁₃H₁₈O₂ used in over-the-counter preparations to relieve pain and fever and in prescription strength especially to relieve the symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis and degenerative arthritis see advil, motrin