Narcotic

/nɑːrˈkɒtɪk/

Meaning & Definition

noun
A drug that affects mood or behavior and is usually illegal.
The police found a stash of narcotics in the suspect's car.
A substance that induces sleep and relieves pain.
Doctors sometimes prescribe narcotics for severe post-operative pain.
adjective
Pertaining to or affecting the nerves or the nervous system, especially in drinking or drug use that induces sleep.
The narcotic effects of the medication helped her sleep through the night.
Relating to drugs that have the potential for addiction and abuse.
Due to its narcotic properties, the medication is closely monitored by health authorities.

Etymology

From Greek 'narkotikos', meaning 'to numb or benumb'.

Common Phrases and Expressions

narcotic effect:
The influence of a narcotic substance that causes drowsiness and insensitivity to pain.
narcotic addiction:
A condition characterized by a compulsive need to use narcotic drugs.
narcotic analgesic:
A drug that relieves pain by affecting the body's central nervous system.

Related Words

Slang Meanings

dope
He was caught with dope and charged with possession.
junk
She struggled with her addiction to junk for years.
smack
He was in and out of rehab for using smack.
H
He’s been on H since he was a teenager.