cure
This word carries a sense of finality and absolute resolution. While treat implies a process of managing symptoms or slowing a disease, cure suggests the complete eradication of the ailment, returning the subject to a state of wholeness. In the culinary sense, the word evokes a chemical transformation. It describes a process of stability where moisture is removed to prevent decay, shifting the focus from medical healing to long-term preservation.
Countable when referring to a specific medical remedy or a solution to a problem. Uncountable when referring to the general process of healing.
Meanings
To make a person healthy again by eliminating a disease or medical condition.
"The new medication helped cure her of the infection."
To preserve food, such as meat or fish, by soaking it in a brine or covering it with salt.
"The fisherman spent the afternoon curing the salmon."
To treat a material, such as rubber or concrete, with heat or chemicals to harden it.
"The industrial process is used to cure the rubber for the tires."
A medicine or medical treatment that makes an illness go away completely.
"Scientists are still searching for a cure for the common cold."
A solution to a problem or a way of dealing with a difficult situation.
"The government is trying to find a permanent cure for the housing crisis."
Examples
The doctor worked tirelessly to cure the patient of the rare disease.
They use a traditional method to cure the ham with salt.
The resin needs several hours to cure before it can be painted.
Researchers are hopeful that they will find a cure for cancer.
Strict new laws may provide a cure for the city's rising crime.
Phrasal Verbs
cure of
to rid someone of a disease or a bad habit
The therapy helped cure him of his phobia of heights.