fentanyl

noun

fen·​ta·​nyl ˈfen-tə-ˌnil 

nonstandard -ˌnȯl

: 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

Early this month, a grand jury indicted Michael Antonio Cruz on charges of conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute methamphetamine and fentanyl as well as possession with intent to distribute fentanyl. — Dan Raby, CBS News, 12 Nov. 2026

The medical examiner’s report said toxicological screenings showed that Chase had methamphetamine and fentanyl in her system. — Ingrid Vasquez, PEOPLE, 11 Nov. 2026

The artist Lucien Smith died from an accidental overdose of fentanyl and oxycodone, stated the New York City medical examiner’s office. — Devorah Lauter, ARTnews.com, 6 Nov. 2026

On April 24, investigators allegedly purchased 2 kilograms of fentanyl from Davy, according to court records. — Staff Report, Hartford Courant, 5 Nov. 2026

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

Rhymes for fentanyl

• bunnell
• funnel
• tunnel
• multifunctional

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.