psilocybin

noun

psi·​lo·​cy·​bin ˌsī-lə-ˈsī-bən 

: a hallucinogenic indole C₁₂H₁₇N₂O₄P obtained from a fungus (such as Psilocybe mexicana or P. cubensis synonym Stropharia cubensis)

Examples of psilocybin in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Amid the psychedelic renaissance in medicine, research is leading to potential benefits from psilocybin for treatment-resistant depression, MDD, and addiction. —Benjamin Adams, Forbes.com, 30 Apr. 2025

The four drink a little—or a lot—of psilocybin tea in a ceremony intended to unite them, but as secrets unravel, the foursome spirals, tumbling into wounds of the past until everyone is laid bare. —Glenn Garner, Deadline, 24 Apr. 2025

The state House voted 84-6 on Monday to advance legislation that would create a psilocybin licensing board within the Iowa Department of Health and Human Services. —Elizabeth Crisp, The Hill, 22 Apr. 2025

The Iowa House of Representatives voted overwhelmingly to legalize psilocybin, a hallucinogenic chemical produced by psychedelic mushrooms, for psychiatric treatment in the state. —Annabella Rosciglione, The Washington Examiner, 22 Apr. 2025

Word History

Etymology

New Latin Psilocybe, fungus genus + -in entry 1

First Known Use

1958, in the meaning defined above

Kids Definition

psilocybin

noun

psi·​lo·​cy·​bin ˌsī-lə-ˈsī-bən 

: a chemical that is obtained from a fungus and causes hallucinations

Medical Definition

psilocybin

noun

psi·​lo·​cy·​bin ˌsī-lə-ˈsī-bən 

: a hallucinogenic indole C₁₂H₁₇N₂O₄P obtained from a basidiomycetous fungus (as Psilocybe mexicana or P. cubensis synonym Stropharia cubensis)