Sedated Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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sedated

[sɪˈdeɪtɪd ]

Definition

Context #1 | Adjective

medical condition

Sedated refers to a state where an individual is under the effects of sedative medications. These medications are used to calm or induce sleep in patients, especially during medical procedures. When someone is sedated, they may appear relaxed and may not respond to stimulation as they normally would. This state can range from mild drowsiness to full unconsciousness depending on the dosage and type of sedative used.

Synonyms

calmed, soothed, tranquilized.

Examples of usage

  • The patient was sedated before the surgery.
  • After the procedure, he remained sedated for several hours.
  • She felt sedated after taking the prescribed medication.
  • The dentist sedated the child to perform the extraction.

Translations

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Interesting Facts

Medical Usage

  • Sedation is often used during surgeries to help patients remain comfortable and still.
  • Different types of sedatives exist, some are mild like a lullaby, while others are stronger, similar to a deep sleep.
  • Medical professionals carefully control the amount of sedative to ensure safety and effectiveness.

Psychology

  • Being sedated can reduce anxiety, helping people feel less stressed in certain situations.
  • Research indicates that sedation is not just physical; it can affect how we process emotions and memories.
  • In some cases, sedation is used in therapy to help patients confront difficult topics while feeling safe.

Pop Culture

  • Sedation is often dramatized in movies, especially in scenes where characters undergo surgery or escape from stress.
  • Music and art sometimes explore the theme of sedation, reflecting on how it feels to disconnect from reality.
  • The term is frequently used in slang to describe relaxation methods that can make a person feel 'out of it.'

History

  • The use of sedatives dates back to ancient Rome and Greece, where herbal remedies were utilized to calm agitated minds.
  • In the 19th century, laudanum, an opiate tincture, was popularly used for its sedative effects, leading to widespread addiction issues.
  • Modern sedation developed significantly during the 20th century with advances in anesthesia practices.

Science

  • Sedatives work by depressing the central nervous system, which controls bodily functions like heart rate and breathing.
  • Studies show that the right dose of sedative can help improve recovery times for patients after medical procedures.
  • Some animals can also be sedated for medical studies, helping researchers learn about the effects of different substances.

Origin of 'sedated'

The term 'sedated' comes from the Latin word 'sedare', which means 'to calm' or 'to quiet'. The root 'sed-' signifies the action of sitting or settling, indicating a state of rest or calmness. Sedatives have been used for centuries in various forms, evolving from herbal remedies to modern pharmaceuticals. As medical practices advanced, so did the understanding and application of sedative drugs, leading to their widespread use in procedures that require patients to remain still or calm. Today, sedation is a common practice in various medical, dental, and even veterinary environments, highlighting the importance of managing anxiety and pain during treatments.


Word Frequency Rank

This word's position of #30,588 indicates it's among the more rare English words. While understanding it broadens your vocabulary, focus on more common words first.