drug
drug Lexical Profile
drug Game Scores & Validity
• noun
A chemical substance used in the treatment, cure, prevention, or diagnosis of disease, or to otherwise enhance physical or mental well-being.
"The researchers are conducting clinical trials for a new drug designed to lower blood pressure."
An often illegal or restricted chemical substance consumed for its mind-altering, stimulant, or recreational effects on the central nervous system.
"The customs officers intercepted a massive shipment of illegal drugs hidden in the cargo container."
• verb
To administer a medication or narcotic to a person or animal, often to induce sleep, unconsciousness, or reduced physical capacity.
"The veterinarians had to drug the aggressive lion before they could safely examine its injuries."
To surreptitiously add a narcotic, toxic, or incapacitating substance into food or a beverage.
"She kept a close eye on her glass at the party to ensure no one tried to drug her drink."
Word Nuance & Usage
The word 'drug' carries a strong dual connotation in English; it functions as a neutral, medical term for pharmaceuticals, but is equally the primary term for illicit, mind-altering narcotics, making context essential to its meaning.
• Rhymes for drug
Word Origin & Etymology
Late 14th century, from Old French 'drogue' (medical preparation), which is generally believed to derive from Middle Dutch 'droge vate' meaning 'dry barrels', referring to the dry herbs and roots stored within them by apothecaries.
Usage Trend
Historical frequency of usage in published text.