How Do You Spell BROMIDE?

Pronunciation: [bɹˈɒma͡ɪd] (IPA)

The word "bromide" is often misspelled due to its unusual phonetic spelling. It is pronounced as "broh-mahyd" (/ˈbroʊˌmaɪd/) and is derived from the chemical element bromine. The correct spelling of "bromide" can be remembered by breaking it down into two parts: "brom" and "ide". "Brom" refers to the chemical element, and "ide" is a common suffix used in chemical compound names. With this understanding, one can properly spell "bromide" without confusing it with the similar-sounding word "bromine".

BROMIDE Meaning and Definition

  1. Bromide, in a literal sense, refers to a compound containing a bromine ion combined with another element or radical. However, in common usage, the term "bromide" has taken on a figurative meaning describing a dull, commonplace or trite statement or idea. As such, it implies a lack of originality, creativity, or profundity.

    The metaphorical understanding of "bromide" emphasizes its association with banal or conventional expressions or thoughts that fail to provoke meaningful or engaging discussions. It refers to statements that lack freshness, insight, or originality, often serving as clichés or platitudes. These expressions, while understood and used frequently, offer little intellectual stimulation, often included in casual conversation or small talk.

    In the context of discussions or debates, the use of bromides can be seen as a conversational fallback or a tactic to avoid deeper engagement. They are often considered uninteresting and uninspiring, as their predictability fails to challenge or engage the listener.

    The term "bromide" can also suggest a calming or sedating effect, similar to the medicinal use of certain bromide compounds in the past. This connotation highlights the lack of excitement or vitality in a bromide statement or idea, leaving the listener unaffected or unstimulated.

    Overall, "bromide" represents a figurative term used to describe trite, unoriginal expressions or thoughts lacking depth or intellectual stimulation, often leading to dull conversations or discussions.

  2. A compound formed by the replacement of the hydrogen in hydrobromic acid by a metal or an organic radical. The bromides official in the U.S.P. are of ammonium, calcium, homatropine, hyoscyamine, lithium, potassium, quinine, scopolamine, sodium, and strontium. See also elixirtrium bromidorum and syrupus bromidorum.

    A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.

  3. A compound of bromine with a metallic base.

    Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.

Common Misspellings for BROMIDE

Etymology of BROMIDE

The word "bromide" originates from the chemical element bromine. It is derived from the Greek word "brōmos", meaning "stench" or "bad smell", due to the strong odor characteristic of bromine. The suffix "-ide" is a chemical term used to indicate an ion or compound. The term "bromide" specifically refers to a compound containing bromine, and it gained a secondary meaning in the late 19th century. At that time, it began to be used figuratively to describe a trite or commonplace statement or a person perceived as dull, derived from the notion that bromides were commonly used as sedatives, which were thought to have a calming or dulling effect.

Idioms with the word BROMIDE

  • homidium bromide

Similar spelling words for BROMIDE

Plural form of BROMIDE is BROMIDES

Infographic

Add the infographic to your website: