sedative

Estimated CEFR level: C2 — Proficiency

Estimated from word frequency; not an official CEFR classification.

Definition

  1. noun a drug that reduces excitability and calms a person
  2. adjective tending to soothe or tranquilize

Etymology

Inherited from Middle English sedatif, from Anglo-Norman sedatif, from Medieval Latin sēdātīvus, which itself likely influenced the modern spelling.

In classic literature

Synonyms

sedative drug, depressant, downer

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