Meaning & Definition of word "Narcotic"

Narcotic

/nɑːrˈkɒtɪk/

noun:

  • 1. A drug that affects mood or behavior and is usually illegal.
    • Example: The police found a stash of narcotics in the suspect's car.
  • 2. A substance that induces sleep and relieves pain.
    • Example: Doctors sometimes prescribe narcotics for severe post-operative pain.

adjective:

  • 1. Pertaining to or affecting the nerves or the nervous system, especially in drinking or drug use that induces sleep.
    • Example: The narcotic effects of the medication helped her sleep through the night.
  • 2. Relating to drugs that have the potential for addiction and abuse.
    • Example: 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

analgesic:

A substance that relieves pain.

opioid:

A type of narcotic that acts on opioid receptors in the brain.

addiction:

The compulsive use of a substance despite harmful consequences.

Slang Meanings of narcotic

Meaning: dope

Example Sentence: He was caught with dope and charged with possession.

Meaning: junk

Example Sentence: She struggled with her addiction to junk for years.

Meaning: smack

Example Sentence: He was in and out of rehab for using smack.

Meaning: H

Example Sentence: He’s been on H since he was a teenager.