noun
hypnotic
A drug that induces sleep.
The doctor prescribes a hypnotic to help her sleep.
Etymology
The Greek adjective means sleep-inducing. The noun names a drug by that effect, rather than by the separate idea of hypnotic suggestion.
More examples
- She takes the hypnotic only as directed.
- Some hypnotics can cause drowsiness the next morning.
- The pharmacist explains the risks of combining a hypnotic with alcohol.
Forms
hypnotic · hypnotics