depressant

noun

de·​pres·​sant di-ˈpre-sᵊnt 

dē-

: one that depresses

specifically : an agent that reduces a bodily functional activity or an instinctive desire (such as appetite)

depressant adjective

Examples of depressant in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

The expert concluded that Miller at the time of the test was impaired by CNS depressants, CNS stimulants and narcotics analgesics — which Drugs.com identifies as opioids used to treat pain. —Staff Reports, Hartford Courant, 12 July 2024

According to court documents, Carey admitted to taking a prescribed central nervous system depressant and to using marijuana recreationally. —Vivian Barrett, The Arizona Republic, 9 July 2024

Be especially careful not to mix sleep aids with alcohol, because both are depressants and intensify their sedative effects when taken together, Freeman said. —Cnn.com, The Mercury News, 4 June 2024

Benzodiazepines are a depressant that produces sedation, sleepiness and a relaxed mood, the affidavit said. —Antonio Planas, NBC News, 2 Mar. 2024

Word History

First Known Use

1876, in the meaning defined above

Kids Definition

depressant

noun

de·​pres·​sant di-ˈpres-ᵊnt 

: a substance (as a drug) that reduces the activity of bodily systems

depressant adjective

Medical Definition

depressant

1 of 2 adjective

de·​pres·​sant -ᵊnt 

: tending to depress

especially : lowering or tending to lower functional or vital activity

a drug with a depressant effect on heart rate

depressant

2 of 2 noun

: one that depresses

specifically : an agent that reduces bodily functional activity or an instinctive desire (as appetite)

a depressant of intestinal spasm