Mainlining: meaning, definitions and examples
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mainlining
[ ˈmeɪnˌlaɪnɪŋ ]
drug use
Mainlining refers to the act of injecting a drug directly into a vein for immediate effect. This method is often associated with the use of intravenous drugs, such as heroin or other opioids. It allows for the drug to enter the bloodstream very rapidly, thus providing a more intense and immediate high. Because of the risks involved, including the potential for overdose, mainlining is considered one of the most dangerous methods of drug consumption.
Synonyms
injecting, intravenous drug use, shooting up
Examples of usage
- He was arrested for mainlining heroin.
- Many drug users turn to mainlining as a way to enhance their experience.
- Mainlining can lead to serious health complications if not done safely.
Translations
Translations of the word "mainlining" in other languages:
🇵🇹 administração direta
🇮🇳 मुख्यधारा में लाना
🇩🇪 Hauptleitung
🇮🇩 mengalir utama
🇺🇦 головне спрямування
🇵🇱 główne kierowanie
🇯🇵 メインライン化
🇫🇷 ligne principale
🇪🇸 principalmente
🇹🇷 ana akıma dahil etme
🇰🇷 주요 흐름
🇸🇦 التوجيه الرئيسي
🇨🇿 hlavní tok
🇸🇰 hlavné prúdenie
🇨🇳 主流化
🇸🇮 glavni tok
🇮🇸 meginflæði
🇰🇿 негізгі ағын
🇬🇪 მთავარი მიმართულება
🇦🇿 əsas axın
🇲🇽 corriente principal
Etymology
The term 'mainlining' originated in the context of drug use, particularly with the rise of heroin addiction in the mid-20th century. It captures the idea of delivering a drug directly into the main bloodstream, as opposed to other methods of use such as smoking or snorting. The connotation of the term also implies a thoughtless or desperate approach to drug use. The precise origins of the word are tied to the language of narcotics and the culture that developed around drug consumption in urban settings. 'Mainline' itself has roots in railroad terminology, where it refers to the primary route or line that connects major locations. In drug culture, this metaphor translates to the most efficient or direct route to experience the effects of a substance. Over time, the word has become synonymous with risk and addiction, reflecting the dangerous behavior associated with intravenous drug use.