fentanyl

noun

fen·​ta·​nyl ˈfen-tə-ˌnil 

: a synthetic opioid narcotic analgesic C₂₂H₂₈N₂O with pharmacological action similar to morphine that is administered transdermally as a skin patch and in the form of its citrate C₂₂H₂₈N₂O·C₆H₈O₇ is administered orally or parenterally (as by intravenous or epidural injection)

Examples of fentanyl in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Jose Armando Longoria, 27, is facing charges of possession of 400 grams or more of fentanyl with intent to distribute after being caught with kilos of fentanyl while trying to enter the U.S., court documents obtained by USA TODAY say. —Fernando Cervantes Jr, USA Today, 25 June 2025

If the urine test is positive for fentanyl, the hospital must perform a follow-up test. —Barnini Chakraborty, The Washington Examiner, 22 June 2025

Toxicology testing showed methamphetamine, amphetamine, fentanyl and methadone in Keys’ blood. —Kristi Miller, Twin Cities, 16 June 2025

However, the talks ultimately accomplished few tangible benefits that President Trump sought to originally gain from the implementation of these tariffs, namely to stem the flow of fentanyl, motivate companies to reshore to the US, and close the trade deficit. —Earl Carr, Forbes.com, 13 June 2025

Word History

Etymology

probably alteration of phenethyl, a monovalent radical derived from ethylbenzine, from phen- + ethyl

First Known Use

1964, in the meaning defined above

Medical Definition

fentanyl

noun

fen·​ta·​nyl ˈfent-ᵊn-ˌil 

: a synthetic opioid narcotic analgesic C₂₂H₂₈N₂O with pharmacological action similar to morphine that is administered transdermally as a skin patch and in the form of its citrate C₂₂H₂₈N₂O·C₆H₈O₇ is administered orally or parenterally

Note: Fentanyl is marketed under the trademark Actiq.