sleeping pill

noun

: a drug and especially a barbiturate that is taken as a tablet or capsule to induce sleep

Examples of sleeping pill in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Studies show that this modification–which involves a number of stages designed to set you up for better sleep–has a longer lasting, better effect than any sleeping pill. —Veronique Greenwood, Time, 10 Nov. 2025

They’re known to interact with GABA receptors, which are the same calming pathways targeted by sleeping pills and anti-anxiety drugs. —New Atlas, 24 Aug. 2025

According to an arrest document cited by the Lexington Herald Leader, Gross allegedly admitted to giving Jayden sleeping pills and later burying him in a plastic tote. —Samira Asma-Sadeque, People.com, 13 Aug. 2025

There are little signs of OCD, drinking, sleeping pills, those moments where everything feels out of control and that’s something so many teens go through. —Steve Baltin, Forbes.com, 10 Aug. 2025

Word History

First Known Use

1664, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for sleeping pill

• basophil
• carboxyl
• daffodil
• neutrophil
• overkill
• anthill
• backfill
• bluegill
• crossbill
• distil
• distill
• downhill

Kids Definition

sleeping pill

noun

: a drug that is taken as a tablet or capsule to bring on sleep

Medical Definition

sleeping pill

noun

: a drug and especially a barbiturate that is taken as a tablet or capsule to induce sleep

called also sleeping tablet