1 topical | Definition of topical

topical

adjective
top·​i·​cal | \ ˈtä-pi-kÉ™l How to pronounce topical (audio) \

Definition of topical

1a : referring to the topics of the day or place : of local or temporary interest a topical novel topical references
b : of, relating to, or arranged by topics set down in topical form
2 : designed for or involving local application and action (as on the body) a topical anesthetic a topical remedy

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Other Words from topical

topically \ ˈtä-​pi-​k(É™-​)lÄ“ How to pronounce topically (audio) \ adverb

Did You Know?

Like a topical medicine, a topical reference or story applies to something specific, focusing on a topic that's currently in the news. TV comedians often use topical humor, making jokes about a currently popular movie or the latest political scandal—if possible, one that just broke that same day. Topical humor has a short lifespan, though, because the news keeps changing and the new hot topics just keep coming. The medical meaning of topical stays closer to the meaning of the root, since it describes something that's put right on the place that seems to need it.

Examples of topical in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Marijuana can be available in medicinal oils, pills, liquids, topical applications, and an inhaler, such as that used by asthma patients. Melinda Deslatte, BostonGlobe.com, "Medical marijuana cleared for release to Louisiana patients," 2 Aug. 2019 Marijuana can be available in medicinal oils, pills, liquids, topical applications and an inhaler, such as that used by asthma patients. Washington Post, "Medical marijuana cleared for release to Louisiana patients," 1 Aug. 2019 These include vaginal moisturizers and lubricants, topical estrogen, medication targeting the pain and discomfort, estrogen therapy, and vaginal dilators. Jenna Birch, Woman's Day, "Bleeding After Menopause Should Never Be Ignored — Here's Why," 31 July 2019 Peony, turmeric, neem extracts, topical caffeine, and botanicals are the anti-inflammatory antioxidants found in this cream that will smooth fine lines and wrinkles by plumping and brightening the skin around your eyes. Maya Allen, Marie Claire, "Why Avya Skincare's Brightening Eye Cream Is Worth It," 31 July 2019 The High Altitude Facial ($230), for example, incorporates a lemon cream cleanse, a papaya pineapple mask and biogenic topical serums to revitalize and smooth the skin. Sarah Kuta, The Know, "Serious self-care: A guide to Colorado’s must-visit spas," 30 July 2019 Minnesota United made a statement with a unique and politically topical pregame ceremony before its scoreless draw with Vancouver on Saturday. Andy Greder, Twin Cities, "With Gov. Walz, Minnesota United makes statement on immigration," 28 July 2019 In other words, something people feel burdened to see and talk about because of its topical urgency, without registering its artistic merits. Elizabeth Kiefer, Glamour, "HBO’s Share Addresses Sexual Assault Unlike Any Movie You’ve Ever Seen," 26 July 2019 It was praised for its blend of sharp humor and tackling of topical subjects like domestic abuse, homophobia and feminism. Sandra Gonzalez, CNN, "'Designing Women' will now stream on Hulu," 26 July 2019

These example sentences are selected automatically from various online news sources to reflect current usage of the word 'topical.' Views expressed in the examples do not represent the opinion of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.

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First Known Use of topical

circa 1525, in the meaning defined at sense 1b

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More Definitions for topical

topical

adjective

English Language Learners Definition of topical

: relating to current news or events : dealing with things that are important, popular, etc., right now
medical : made to be put on the skin

topical

adjective
top·​i·​cal | \ ˈtäp-i-kÉ™l How to pronounce topical (audio) \

Medical Definition of topical

: designed for or involving application to or action on the surface of a part of the body applied a topical anesthetic to numb the skin eyedrops used in the topical treatment of glaucoma

Other Words from topical

topically \ -​k(É™-​)lÄ“ How to pronounce topically (audio) \ adverb

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More from Merriam-Webster on topical

Rhyming Dictionary: Words that rhyme with topical

Spanish Central: Translation of topical

Nglish: Translation of topical for Spanish Speakers

Britannica English: Translation of topical for Arabic Speakers