sedation

noun

se·​da·​tion si-ˈdā-shən How to pronounce sedation (audio)
1
: the inducing of a relaxed easy state especially by the use of sedatives
2
: a state resulting from or as if from sedation

Examples of sedation in a Sentence

For some patients, sedation may be necessary.
Recent Examples on the Web
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The initial effects of the drug include deep sedation or decreased consciousness, bradycardia (slow heart rate), hypotension (low blood pressure) and respiratory depression, especially when combined with fentanyl and other opioids. Melissa Rudy, FOXNews.com, 2 Apr. 2026 Ronald Demeo, 63, was jailed last week after a woman reported that she was assaulted while under sedation at his clinic, located at 2801 SW Third Ave. Milena Malaver, Miami Herald, 1 Apr. 2026 The compounds interact with the brain's opioid receptors, which can mimic the effects of drugs such as hydrocodone, including sedation, euphoria and a decrease in pain, according to the National Institutes of Health's National Institute on Drug Abuse. Josh Kelly, Oklahoman, 26 Mar. 2026 Oral medications like NSAIDs or anxiolytics and other interventions like distraction can help, and sedation should be available for those who need or want it. Maryl Sackeim, STAT, 20 Mar. 2026 See All Example Sentences for sedation

Word History

First Known Use

1543, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of sedation was in 1543

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Cite this Entry

“Sedation.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/sedation. Accessed 9 Apr. 2026.

Medical Definition

sedation

noun
se·​da·​tion si-ˈdā-shən How to pronounce sedation (audio)
1
: the inducing of a relaxed easy state especially by the use of sedatives
2
: a state resulting from sedation see conscious sedation, deep sedation

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