nicotine

noun

nic·​o·​tine ˈni-kə-ˌtēn 

: a poisonous alkaloid C₁₀H₁₄N₂ that is the chief active principle of tobacco and is used as an insecticide

Examples of nicotine in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

But several studies suggest vaping carries its own health risks, such as high blood pressure and nicotine addiction, as well as an increased risk of asthma in teens. —Adam Kovac, Scientific American, 6 May 2026

Avoiding injury, staying physically active, managing your weight, and quitting nicotine all support knee health. —Abby Norman, Verywell Health, 4 May 2026

It was meant to be a nicotine-delivery device that was an alternative to traditional, tobacco cigarettes. —Mikkael Sekeres, Washington Post, 4 May 2026

Energy drinks and nicotine pouches help people stay alert and sharpen focus when that morning coffee caffeine jolt isn't enough. —Jessica Guynn, USA Today, 28 Apr. 2026

Word History

Etymology

French, from New Latin nicotiana

First Known Use

1817, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for nicotine

• acrolein
• adenine
• alkylene
• aniline
• anthracene
• aquiline
• asphaltene
• atlantean
• atrazine
• butadiene
• butylene
• caesarean

Kids Definition

nicotine

noun

nic·​o·​tine ˈnik-ə-ˌtēn 

: a poisonous substance found in tobacco and used as an insecticide

Medical Definition

nicotine

noun

nic·​o·​tine ˈnik-ə-ˌtēn 

: a poisonous alkaloid C₁₀H₁₄N₂ that is the chief active principle of tobacco and that is used as an insecticide and is sometimes used in smoking cessation aids

Note: Trademarks for nicotine include Nicoderm, Nicorette, and Nicotrol.