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

Two days later, investigators searched his hotel room and reported finding nearly 700 grams of cocaine, more than 70 grams of fentanyl, drug packaging materials and $13,867, according to authorities. — Justin Muszynski, Hartford Courant, 2 Oct. 2026

According to North Carolina data, Rowan County has the second-highest fentanyl-positive death rate in the state. — Julia Coin october 1, Charlotte Observer, 1 Oct. 2026

Like morphine and fentanyl, cychlorphine locks onto the brain’s mu-opioid receptors, reducing pain and increasing euphoria. — New Atlas, 30 Sep. 2026

Milania Giudice allegedly had fentanyl in her system, Teresa Giudice claimed in bodycam video. — Tracy Wright, FOXNews.com, 29 Sep. 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.