Meaning & Definition of word "Opiate"
Opiate
/ˈoʊ.pi.ət/
noun:
- 1. A narcotic drug that is derived from opium and is used to relieve pain.
- Example: The doctor prescribed an opiate to manage the patient's severe pain after surgery.
- 2. Something that induces a state of lethargy or inaction.
- Example: Television can be an opiate that keeps people from engaging in more productive activities.
verb:
- 1. To soothe or calm someone with or as if with an opiate.
- Example: The therapist tried to opiate the patient's anxiety with calming techniques.
Etymology
●From Latin 'opiatum', derived from 'opium'.
Common Phrases and Expressions
opiate of the masses:
A term describing something that pacifies or dulls the awareness of people.
Related Words
opioid:
A class of drugs that includes opiates and synthetic drugs with similar effects.
narcotic:
A substance affecting mood or behavior that is used for medical purposes but can also have harmful effects.
Slang Meanings of opiate
Meaning: Dope
● Example Sentence: He's been using dope to cope with his pain.
Meaning: Smack
● Example Sentence: He got hooked on smack and it's been hard for him to quit.