Spanish word

tónico

Pronunciation

IPA/ˈtoniko/

Meaning

  • masculine nountonic

Example

Cuando se siente débil, mi abuela toma un tónico por la mañana.

When she feels weak, my grandmother takes a tonic each morning.

Illustration for tónico (tonic)

More examples

Uso tónico facial después de limpiar la piel.

I use a facial toner after cleansing the skin.

Core concept

Fortifying liquid remedy used when someone feels weak.

Common phrases

  • tomar un tónico

    take a tonic

  • tónico facial

    facial toner

  • tónico capilar

    hair tonic

Similar words

bebida energética: Caffeinated or stimulant drink that produces a brief, noticeable energy boost.
suplemento: Tablets or powders that supply specific vitamins or minerals missing from the diet.

Definition in Spanish

Producto líquido o preparado que se usa para dar vigor o mejorar la energía corporal, especialmente en casos de cansancio o debilidad.

Word origin

Formed from the adjective tónico (from Latin tonicus, from Greek tónos 'tension'), literally 'that which restores tone' and used as a noun for strength-giving preparations.

Usage tips

  • Among older speakers and in marketing, tónico often serves as a catchall for products claimed to give energy, so speakers usually clarify the specific benefit or ingredient meant.

Other meanings

  • tonernoun
  • tonic notenoun

Opposites

  • sedantesedativenoun

Related words

  • tonificartoneverb
  • tonificacióntoningnoun
  • tonificanteinvigoratingadjective

Word lists with this word