Narcotics: meaning, definitions and examples
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narcotics
[nɑːrˈkɒtɪks ]
Definitions
illegal drugs
Narcotics are substances that affect the central nervous system and are often used illegally for their euphoric effects. They can be highly addictive and have serious side effects.
Synonyms
drugs, illegal drugs, substances.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| narcotics |
Typically used in legal and medical contexts to refer to powerful painkillers that can be addictive, such as morphine or heroin. It can also have a formal tone, often used by law enforcement.
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| drugs |
A general term that can refer to both legal medications and illegal substances. It can be used in everyday conversation, medical contexts, or when referring to drug abuse.
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| substances |
A broad term that can refer to any material with particular physical characteristics, including drugs. Often used in scientific, regulatory, or legal contexts, and may be used to avoid the negative connotations of other words.
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| illegal drugs |
Specifically refers to substances that are illegal to possess, use, or distribute. This term is often used in discussions about law enforcement, crime, and public health.
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Examples of usage
- Heroin and cocaine are examples of narcotics.
- Many countries have strict laws against the trafficking of narcotics.
medication
In a medical context, narcotics refer to drugs prescribed for pain relief. They work by blocking pain signals in the brain and are used for severe pain management.
Synonyms
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| narcotics |
Narcotics, when referred to again in the same list, highlight the potential for confusion with similar words. Repetition might emphasize different shades of meaning, like discussing legal versus medical contexts.
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| painkillers |
Painkillers is a more casual term often used in everyday language to describe any medication intended to relieve pain. This term can apply to both prescription medications and over-the-counter drugs.
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| analgesics |
Analgesics are typically used in a medical context to refer to medications specifically designed to relieve pain. They can be over-the-counter or prescribed, and they do not necessarily dull the senses.
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Examples of usage
- After the surgery, the patient was given narcotics to manage the pain.
- Narcotics like morphine are commonly used in hospitals for pain relief.
Interesting Facts
Etymology
- The term stems from the Greek word 'narkōtikos,' meaning 'to make numb.'
- In the early 20th century, the word began to identify a class of drugs used for pain relief.
- Legal definitions and classifications of narcotics can vary across different countries and contexts.
History
- Opium, one of the oldest narcotics, has been used for thousands of years for its pain-relieving properties.
- The creation of synthetic narcotics began in the 19th century, with drugs like morphine and later, oxycodone being developed.
- The Harrison Narcotics Tax Act of 1914 in the United States marked a significant point in the regulation of these substances.
Pop Culture
- Narcotics have been a recurring theme in literature and films, often linked to crime, addiction, and moral dilemmas.
- Many famous songs address the struggle with addiction, reflecting societal views and personal stories related to narcotics.
- The character of the 'narc' or undercover agent often appears in crime dramas, representing the fight against drug abuse.
Science
- Narcotics work by binding to specific receptors in the brain, blocking pain signals and often leading to feelings of euphoria.
- Research into the effects of narcotics includes their impact on brain chemistry and long-term effects on mental health.
- The misuse of narcotics can create a cycle of dependency, which has serious health implications.
Psychology
- The use of narcotics is often linked to emotional and psychological issues, with some seeking relief through substance use.
- Addiction to these drugs can lead to changes in behavior, impacting relationships, work, and personal well-being.
- Therapy and support groups are important for recovery and addressing the psychological factors related to narcotic use.
Translations
Translations of the word "narcotics" in other languages:
🇵🇹 narcóticos
🇮🇳 नशीले पदार्थ
🇩🇪 Narkotika
🇮🇩 narkotika
🇺🇦 наркотики
🇵🇱 narkotyki
🇯🇵 麻薬 (まやく)
🇫🇷 stupéfiants
🇪🇸 narcóticos
🇹🇷 uyuşturucu
🇰🇷 마약 (mayak)
🇸🇦 مخدرات
🇨🇿 narkotika
🇸🇰 narkotiká
🇨🇳 麻醉品 (má zuì pǐn)
🇸🇮 narkotiki
🇮🇸 fíkniefni
🇰🇿 есірткі
🇬🇪 ნარკოტიკები
🇦🇿 narkotik
🇲🇽 narcóticos