heroin

noun

her·​o·​in ˈher-ə-wən 

ˈhe-rə-

: a strongly physiologically addictive narcotic C₂₁H₂₃NO₅ that is made by acetylation of but is more potent than morphine and that is prohibited for medical use in the U.S. but is used illicitly for its euphoric effects

heroinism

ˈher-ə-wə-ˌni-zəm 

ˈhe-rə-

noun

Examples of heroin in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Jimmy, an 18-month-old German shepherd-Belgian Malinois mix from Europe, is certified in apprehension and the detection of methamphetamine, cocaine, heroin and fentanyl. — Nicole Buss, Sacbee.com, 14 July 2026

In anticipation of the birth of his son, Ferguson had kicked a nagging heroin habit, trading his addiction to drugs for an infatuation with activism. — Literary Hub, 10 July 2026

The film follows Mia (Jane Levy), who is recovering from a heroin addiction. — Brianna Zigler, Entertainment Weekly, 10 July 2026

As part of the investigation, law enforcement seized over 2,000 pounds of cocaine and more than one pound of heroin along with cash and firearms. — City News Service, Daily News, 7 July 2026

Word History

Etymology

from Heroin, a trademark

First Known Use

1898, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for heroin

• heroine

Kids Definition

heroin

noun

her·​o·​in ˈher-ə-wən 

: a strongly addictive drug made from the opium poppy and stronger than morphine

Medical Definition

heroin

noun

her·​o·​in ˈher-ə-wən 

: a strongly physiologically addictive narcotic C₂₁H₂₃NO₅ that is made by acetylation of but is more potent than morphine and that is prohibited for medical use in the United States but is used illicitly for its euphoric effects

called also acetomorphine, diacetylmorphine, diamorphine