Sedative: meaning, definitions and examples

Used in medical settings to induce calmness or sleep, often for patients undergoing surgery or experiencing extreme anxiety.

• The doctor administered a sedative before the surgery.
• She was given a sedative to calm her nerves before the procedure.

Typically used in situations requiring significant reduction of extreme stress or agitation, often for mental health conditions or in veterinary practice, and may have a strong, sometimes negative, connotation.

• The vet gave the anxious dog a tranquilizer before the procedure.
• He was given a tranquilizer to manage his severe anxiety attack.

Refers broadly to any substance or practice that promotes relaxation, such as herbal teas or breathing exercises, suitable for both medical and personal use.

• Chamomile tea acts as a calming agent, helping you unwind before bed.
• He uses a calming agent, like deep breathing, to manage his stress.

Specifically used to help people fall asleep, often prescribed for those with insomnia or other sleep disorders.

• After struggling with insomnia, she took a sleeping pill to get a good night's rest.
• The doctor prescribed a sleeping pill to help him regulate his sleep cycle.

Used mainly in medical or clinical settings to refer to drugs that calm the nervous system and induce drowsiness or sleep.

• The doctor prescribed a sedative to help the patient sleep

Used in everyday language to describe something that helps to relax or reduce stress without necessarily inducing sleep.

• Listening to the sound of waves is very calming

Usually refers to strong medications that reduce anxiety and agitation, often used in medical or psychological contexts. It can have a somewhat negative connotation due to its association with potent drugs.

• The vet gave the animal a tranquilizing injection to keep it calm during the procedure

Used to describe substances or activities that specifically help someone fall asleep. It focuses on promoting sleep rather than just relaxation.

• Warm milk is often recommended as a sleep-inducing remedy