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Psychotomimetic Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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psychotomimetic

[ˌsaɪ.koʊˌtɑːˈmɪm.ɪt.ɪk ]

Definition

Context #1 | Adjective

psychology

Having the ability to mimic or reproduce the symptoms of a psychotic disorder.

Synonyms

hallucinogenic, psychedelic.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
psychotomimetic

This term is mostly used in medical and scientific contexts to describe substances that can mimic symptoms of psychosis. It is not commonly used in everyday conversation.

  • Researchers studied the effects of the psychotomimetic drug on patients.
  • The substance has psychotomimetic properties similar to those found in schizophrenia.
hallucinogenic

This word is used to describe substances that cause hallucinations. It is often found in both scientific discussions and casual conversations. It is also sometimes used in contexts discussing the potential risks or negative effects of such substances.

  • The shaman used hallucinogenic plants in his rituals.
  • Certain mushrooms are known for their hallucinogenic effects.
psychedelic

Usually used to describe substances that cause altered states of perception and consciousness. This word is often used in cultural, artistic, and recreational contexts, and can have a more positive or neutral connotation compared to 'hallucinogenic' or 'psychotomimetic'.

  • The music had a distinctly psychedelic vibe.
  • They attended a psychedelic art exhibition featuring vibrant, surreal paintings.

Examples of usage

  • This drug is known for its psychotomimetic effects.
  • The researcher studied the psychotomimetic properties of various substances.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Science

  • Many psychotomimetic substances belong to a class of drugs called hallucinogens, which can alter perception and cognition.
  • Some substances like LSD and psilocybin are noted for their ability to induce experiences similar to psychosis.

Psychology

  • Research on psychotomimetic effects is often used in psychology to understand the nature of mental disorders.
  • Experiments with psychotomimetic drugs often help scientists develop new treatments for conditions like schizophrenia and depression.

Cultural Impact

  • The 1960s counterculture movement highlighted the use of psychotomimetic drugs, influencing art, music, and social norms.
  • Pop culture often portrays psychotomimetic experiences, leading to varied public perceptions of drugs in media.

Health and Medicine

  • Options for therapeutic use of psychotomimetic substances are being explored, particularly in controlled environments for mental health treatment.
  • While they can reproduce symptoms of mental illness, under medical supervision, they may offer rehabilitation for some patients.

Origin of 'psychotomimetic'

Main points about word origin

  • The term combines 'psycho' from the Greek 'psyche', meaning mind or soul, and 'mimetic' from the Greek 'mimesis', meaning imitation.
  • It first appeared in the scientific literature in the 1950s as researchers began studying the effects of certain drugs on the mind.

The term 'psychotomimetic' is derived from the Greek words 'psyche' meaning 'mind' and 'mimetic' meaning 'imitating'. It was first introduced in the field of psychology to describe substances or drugs that can mimic the symptoms of psychosis. The use of psychotomimetic substances has been studied in various research settings to better understand psychotic disorders.