Adjective
some people find a glass of wine to be a civilized and sedative addition to an evening meal Noun
The patient was given a powerful sedative.
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Adjective
Even small amounts of alcohol can amplify Benadryl’s sedative effects and interfere with daily functioning.—Alex Yampolsky, Verywell Health, 29 Sep. 2025 Kratom has both stimulant and sedative effects, according to the US Food and Drug Administration.—Kristen Rogers, CNN Money, 26 Aug. 2025
Noun
Popular since the Soviet days, Validol, a mild sedative sold over the counter, flies off the shelves in tens of millions each year.—Nina Khrushcheva, Time, 3 Oct. 2025 Reject The Quick-Fix Trap The temptation is to reach for stimulants, sedatives, or trendy supplements.—Julian Hayes Ii, Forbes.com, 18 Sep. 2025 See All Example Sentences for sedative
Word History
Etymology
Adjective
Middle English, alleviating pain, from Middle French sedatif, from Medieval Latin sedativus, from Latin sedatus
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