noun / adjective
sedative
SED-uh-tiv/ˈsedətɪv/
A drug that calms or induces sleep, or having this effect.
The clinician prepares a sedative beside the drowsy patient.
Etymology
The pieces originally described something “tending to calm or soothe.” That adjective became a noun for a calming drug, naming the substance by its effect.
In context
valarian root which is really good for treating insomnia because it's a mild sedative
More examples
- The medicine has a sedative effect.
- Several sedatives were discussed in the textbook.
- The chart records when the sedative was given.
Forms
sedative · sedatives
Similar words
- tranquilizer
- Tranquilizer especially emphasizes reducing anxiety or agitation.
- soporific
- Soporific specifically emphasizes inducing sleep.