sedative

Noun · Adjective
US[sed-uh-tiv]/ˈsɛdətɪv/3 syllables

Open English WordNet

Noun (1)sedatives

  1. a drug that reduces excitability and calms a personSynonyms: sedative drugdepressantdownerType of medicine, drug of abuseKinds glutethimide, sedative-hypnotic, chloral hydrate

Adjective (1)

  1. tending to soothe or tranquilize“valium has a tranquilizing effect”“took a hot drink with sedative properties before going to bed”Synonyms: ataracticataraxictranquilizingtranquillizingtranquilisingtranquillisingOpposite stimulativeSimilar depressant
Word of the day · Sep 29About this word
haphazardadjective

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Webster's Dictionary (1913)

Sed′a·tive adjective

Origin: Cf. F. sédatif.

Tending to calm, moderate, or tranquilize; specifically Medicine, allaying irritability and irritation; assuaging pain.


Sed′a·tive noun

Medicine A remedy which allays irritability and irritation, and irritative activity or pain.

Webster’s Revised Unabridged Dictionary (1913), from GCIDE 0.54

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