Sedation: meaning, definitions and examples

Used primarily in medical or clinical settings to refer to the process of calming a patient by administering sedative drugs.

• The patient was put under sedation before the surgery
• Heavy sedation was required to manage his anxiety

General term that can be used in everyday situations to describe anything that reduces stress, tension, or excitement.

• Listening to classical music is very calming for me
• She spoke in a calming voice to help the baby stop crying

Primarily used in medical or zoological contexts to refer to the process of giving a tranquilizer to achieve a state of calm, often for animals. It can have a slightly clinical or technical connotation.

• The veterinarian needed to perform tranquillization to safely transport the wild animal
• Tranquillization was necessary to handle the aggressive dog

Used in contexts related to leisure and relief from stress or tension, often associated with activities aimed at reducing stress.

• Yoga practice can lead to deep relaxation
• A weekend at the spa provides much-needed relaxation

Common in medical or dental settings, often used when referring to the administration of drugs to make a patient relaxed or unconscious before a procedure.

• The doctor administered sedation before the surgery to ensure the patient felt no pain.
• She needed sedation during the dental procedure due to high anxiety.

Used in everyday situations to describe something that reduces anxiety or stress, often referring to activities, environments, or substances.

• Listening to calming music helps me unwind after a long day.
• His voice had a calming effect on the distressed child.

More often used in a medical or veterinary context, referring to the use of tranquilizers to reduce agitation or excitement.

• The veterinarian recommended tranquillization for the overly excitable dog during the trip.
• In severe cases, tranquillization might be necessary to calm the patient.

Typically used to describe a state of reduced tension or stress, often achieved through leisure activities or mental techniques.

• A bubble bath is perfect for relaxation after a hectic week.
• Yoga sessions contribute significantly to my relaxation and well-being.

Used primarily in medical contexts, this word refers to the act of administering a drug to calm or make someone sleep.

• The patient was given sedation before the surgery.
• The doctor recommended sedation to help with the anxiety.

Refers to a state of being free from agitation or strong emotions. It's often used to describe a person's demeanor or a situation.

• Her calmness during the emergency was admirable.
• We need to maintain calmness in times of crisis.

Describes a state of peace and quiet, often used to talk about nature, places, or a person's inner state.

• The tranquility of the lake is unmatched.
• She enjoys the tranquility of early mornings.

Implies a state of being free from tension and anxiety. It is used in casual or leisure contexts.

• The weekend is a time for relaxation.
• A good book brings me relaxation after a long day.