noun
- drugs or medicines that calm the nervous system and reduce anxiety, tension, or excitement
Usage: medical; plural form of sedative
Examples
- The doctor prescribed mild sedatives to help her sleep.
- Sedatives can be habit-forming if used improperly.
- The patient was given sedatives before the surgery.
- Natural sedatives like chamomile tea are popular alternatives.
- The veterinarian used sedatives to calm the anxious dog.
- Some sedatives require a prescription from a licensed physician.