Sedative

/ˈsɛd.ə.tɪv/

Meaning & Definition

noun

A drug or substance that has a calming or soothing effect, often used to assist with sleep or reduce anxiety.

The doctor prescribed a sedative to help manage her anxiety before the procedure.

A type of medication that reduces excitement or irritability.

He took a sedative to calm his nerves before the big flight.

A substance that induces sedation.

The nurse administered a sedative to ensure the patient would remain calm during the surgery.

adjective

Having a calming effect or inducing sedation.

The sedative properties of the herbal tea helped her relax after a long day.

Relating to or characterized by sedation.

They used a sedative approach in their therapy sessions to help patients feel more at ease.

From Latin 'sedare', meaning 'to calm' or 'to settle'.

sedative effect

The calming or sleep-inducing action of a sedative.

prescription sedative

A sedative that requires a doctor's prescription for use.

over the counter sedative

Sedatives that can be purchased without a prescription.

tranquilizer

A type of sedative that reduces tension without causing sleep.

anxiolytic

A medication that alleviates anxiety symptoms.

Chill pills

She called them her chill pills because they helped her relax.

Downers

He's been using downers to help him cope with stress.