nootropic

noun

no·​o·​tro·​pic ˌnō-ə-ˈtrō-pik 

: a substance that enhances cognition and memory and facilitates learning

nootropic adjective

Examples of nootropic in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Some nutrients and herbs can interact with prescribed medications in potentially dangerous ways, such as nootropics and mood-stabilizing psychiatric medications. —Heather Sandison, Contributor, CNBC, 4 Mar. 2025

This alcohol-free brew is hoppy like an IPA but packed with stress-busting adaptogens and nootropics. —Stephanie Gravalese, Forbes, 13 Jan. 2025

Its key ingredients, Lion’s Mane and Rhodiola Rosea, are nootropics that can help activate your brain’s receptors, keeping you alert and providing intense mental clarity. —Lydia Kariuki, The Mercury News, 4 Dec. 2024

Two of the latest to generate a buzz are adaptogens, which are plants and mushrooms that have been shown to help the body respond to stress and fatigue, and nootropics, which are natural or synthetic cognitive enhancers like caffeine, gingko and amino acids. —Louise Dixon, San Diego Union-Tribune, 15 Apr. 2024

Word History

Etymology

French nootrope "nootropic drug" (from Greek noo-, combining form of nóos, contracted noûs "mind, intellect"—of uncertain origin—+ French -trope "changing in the way specified," borrowed from Greek -tropos -tropous) + -ic entry 1

First Known Use

1976, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for nootropic

• arthroscopic
• barotropic
• cystoscopic
• endoscopic
• gyroscopic
• hygroscopic
• isentropic
• isotopic
• isotropic
• macroscopic
• microscopic
• orthotopic

Medical Definition

nootropic

1 of 2 adjective

no·​o·​tro·​pic ˌnō-ə-ˈtrō-pik, -ˈträp-ik 

: of, relating to, or promoting the enhancement of cognition and memory and the facilitation of learning

nootropic drugs

nootropic

2 of 2 noun

: a nootropic substance and especially a drug

called also smart drug