placebo effect

noun

: improvement in the condition of a patient that occurs in response to treatment but cannot be considered due to the specific treatment used

Examples of placebo effect in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Researchers suggested the improvement in both groups was largely a placebo effect. — Samantha Agate, Fort Worth Star-Telegram, 21 Aug. 2026 And the placebo effect is very, very strong for anxiety, so many will benefit. — Maggie O'Neill, Verywell Health, 4 Aug. 2026 When JaYoung reported feeling better after taking breaks, the students launched into a discussion about the placebo effect. — Manoush Zomorodi, STAT, 24 June 2026 The placebo effect is powerful. — Lauren Jarvis-Gibson, Miami Herald, 22 June 2026 See All Example Sentences for placebo effect

Word History

First Known Use

1902, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of placebo effect was in 1902

Rhymes for placebo effect

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Browse Nearby Words

placebo
placebo effect
place brick
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Cite this Entry

“Placebo effect.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/placebo%20effect. Accessed 28 Aug. 2026.

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Medical Definition

placebo effect

noun
: improvement in the condition of a patient that occurs in response to treatment but cannot be considered due to the specific treatment used
Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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