barbiturate

noun

bar·​bi·​tu·​rate bär-ˈbi-chə-rət 

-ˌrāt;

ˌbär-bə-ˈtyu̇r-ət, 

-ˈtu̇r-, 

-ˌāt 

nonstandard bär-ˈbi-chə-wət

1

: a salt or ester of barbituric acid

2

: any of various derivatives of barbituric acid (such as phenobarbital) that are used especially as sedatives, hypnotics, and antispasmodics and are often addictive

Examples of barbiturate in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Following a toxicology report, Monroe’s official cause of death was listed as acute barbiturate poisoning. — Alex Gurley, PEOPLE, 4 Aug. 2026

The vending machine will offer two-dose boxes of naloxone and other hygiene and personal safety tools, including fentanyl test strips, xylazine, barbiturates, condoms and medetomidine. — Jt Moodee Lockman, CBS News, 30 June 2026

The police allegedly found an eight-page note and a bottle of barbiturates at Sally’s side, and Sam identified his stepdaughter’s body. — Rachel Syme, New Yorker, 1 June 2026

For many actresses, channeling Monroe, who died 50 years ago at 36 of an overdose of barbiturates, is virtually a rite of passage. — Rebecca Mead, Allure, 29 May 2026

Word History

First Known Use

1868, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Kids Definition

barbiturate

noun

bar·​bit·​u·​rate

bär-ˈbich-ə-rət, 

-ˌrāt, 

ˌbär-bə-ˈt(y)u̇r-ət, 

-ˈt(y)u̇(ə)r-ˌāt

: any of various drugs related to barbituric acid that are used especially to calm or to produce sleep and are often habit-forming

Medical Definition

barbiturate

noun

bar·​bi·​tu·​rate bär-ˈbich-ə-rət  -ˌrāt; ˌbär-bə-ˈt(y)u̇r-ət 

-ˈt(y)u̇(ə)r-ˌāt

1

: a salt or ester of barbituric acid

2

: any of various derivatives of barbituric acid (as phenobarbital) that are used especially as sedatives, hypnotics, and antispasmodics and are often addictive