hallucinogen

noun

hal·​lu·​ci·​no·​gen hə-ˈlü-sə-nə-jən 

: a substance that induces hallucinations

hallucinogenic

hə-ˌlü-sə-nə-ˈje-nik 

adjective or noun

Examples of hallucinogen in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

The hallucinogen is known to raise the risk of abnormal heart rhythms and rates and could cause vomiting. —Jacqueline Howard, CNN Money, 22 Apr. 2026

As part of the case, which will be heard in the fall, the court will consider narrowing a landmark 1990 decision over the spiritual use of peyote, a cactus that contains a hallucinogen called mescaline. —Lindsay Whitehurst, Chicago Tribune, 20 Apr. 2026

As part of the case, the court will consider narrowing a landmark 1990 decision over the spiritual use of peyote, a cactus that contains a hallucinogen called mescaline. —ABC News, 20 Apr. 2026

Psychedelic therapy has gained momentum in recent years, with some studies suggesting benefits of using hallucinogens. —Bloomberg News, Boston Herald, 18 Apr. 2026

Word History

Etymology

hallucination + -o- + -gen

First Known Use

1954, in the meaning defined above

Kids Definition

hallucinogen

noun

hal·​lu·​ci·​no·​gen hə-ˈlü-sə-nə-jən 

: a drug that causes hallucinations

hallucinogenic

-ˌlü-sə-nə-ˈjen-ik 

adjective

Medical Definition

hallucinogen

noun

hal·​lu·​ci·​no·​gen hə-ˈlüs-ᵊn-ə-jən 

: a substance and especially a drug that induces hallucinations