Inhalant Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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inhalant

[ษชnหˆheษชlษ™nt ]

Definition

Context #1 | Noun

substance use

An inhalant is a chemical vapor that can be inhaled to achieve a psychoactive effect. Often associated with recreational use, inhalants can include a variety of household products like glues, paints, and solvents. While they might produce a short-lasting high, inhalants can also have serious, sometimes fatal health consequences.

Synonyms

fumes, gasses, volatile substance.

Examples of usage

  • The teenager experimented with various inhalants at a party.
  • Prolonged use of inhalants can lead to irreversible brain damage.
  • Inhalants are often mistakenly considered safe because they are common household items.

Translations

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Origin of 'inhalant'

The term 'inhalant' is derived from the Latin word 'inhalare', which means 'to inhale'. It began to be used in the English language in the late 20th century as the abuse of substances for psychoactive effects became more recognized. Prior to this, many of the substances now categorized as inhalants were simply viewed as household chemicals or industrial solvents without awareness of their potential for recreational use and associated health risks. The growing prevalence of inhalant abuse in youth culture led to an increase in discussions around prevention and education, further solidifying the term 'inhalant' in health and safety discourses.


Word Frequency Rank

This word's position of #33,193 indicates it's among the more rare English words. While understanding it broadens your vocabulary, focus on more common words first.