nocebo

[ noh-see-boh ]

/ noʊˈsi boʊ /

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noun

an inactive substance or a real medication that produces unpleasant or worsening symptoms in a patient or research participant because the person expects negative effects. Compare placebo (def. 1).

a negative symptom experienced by a person with such expectations.

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Origin of nocebo

1960–65; Latin nocēbō “I shall be harmful”; patterned after placebo

Words nearby nocebo

nocardia, Nocardia asteroides, Nocardia caviae, Nocardia farcinica, nocardiosis, nocebo, nocent, noci-, nociceptive, nociceptive reflex, nociceptor

How to use nocebo in a sentence

If someone feels ignored or belittled, they may experience a nocebo effect.
Discovering the power of placebos|Kathryn Hulick|September 9, 2021|Science News For Students
Brain stimulation affected neural pathways that were already thought to be involved in the placebo and nocebo effects.
Mild zaps to the brain can boost a pain-relieving placebo effect|Jackie Rocheleau|May 7, 2021|Science News
People also reported higher pain intensity on the “capsaicin” skin, an expected nocebo effect.
Mild zaps to the brain can boost a pain-relieving placebo effect|Jackie Rocheleau|May 7, 2021|Science News