First Known Use: 1779
Dictionary
1sedative
adjective sed·a·tive \ˈse-də-tiv\
Definition of SEDATIVE
: tending to calm, moderate, or tranquilize nervousness or excitement
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Origin of SEDATIVE
Middle English, alleviating pain, from Middle French sedatif, from Medieval Latin sedativus, from Latin sedatus
Related to SEDATIVE
- Synonyms
- calming, comforting, dreamy, lulling, narcotic, pacifying, quieting, relaxing, soothing, tranquilizing (also tranquillizing)
2sedative
noun
: a drug that calms or relaxes someone
Full Definition of SEDATIVE
: a sedative agent or drug
See sedative defined for English-language learners
First Known Use of SEDATIVE
1797
SEDATIVE Defined for Kids
sedative
noun sed·a·tive \ˈse-də-tiv\
Definition of SEDATIVE for Kids
: a medicine that calms or relaxes someone
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