truth serum

noun

: a hypnotic or anesthetic held to induce a subject under questioning to talk freely

Examples of truth serum in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Curiously, leaving office seems to act as a kind of truth serum for GOP politicians. Letters To The Editor, The Orlando Sentinel, 15 Jan. 2026 That’s what this week really is: a team-by-team truth serum. Decisions, decisions The 2025 Coach of the Year race is shaping up to be one of the tightest in recent memory. Dianna Russini, New York Times, 3 Jan. 2026 Now, watch Drag Race stars sip on truth serum: Follow Allure on Instagram and TikTok, or subscribe to our newsletter to stay up to date on all things beauty. Marci Robin, Allure, 4 Apr. 2025 The playfulness kicks in when George and Kathryn invite the other suspects over for a dinner spiced with garlic and truth serum. Amy Nicholson, Los Angeles Times, 13 Mar. 2025 See All Example Sentences for truth serum

Word History

First Known Use

1900, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of truth serum was in 1900

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Truth serum.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/truth%20serum. Accessed 22 Jan. 2026.

Medical Definition

truth serum

noun
: a hypnotic or anesthetic (as thiopental) held to induce a subject under questioning to talk freely
Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!