Depressant

B2 16+

Pronunciation: /dɪˈprɛsənt/

Definitions of depressant

noun a drug or substance that reduces functional or nervous activity

Example Sentences

A1 Alcohol is a depressant that can slow down your central nervous system.

A2 Some medications, like sleeping pills, are classified as depressants.

B1 It is important to be aware of the side effects of using depressants for anxiety or insomnia.

B2 Doctors may prescribe depressants to help patients manage chronic pain.

C1 The misuse of depressants can lead to addiction and serious health consequences.

C2 Researchers are studying the effects of different types of depressants on brain function.

adjective relating to or causing a decrease in functional or nervous activity

Example Sentences

A1 Alcohol is a depressant substance that can make you feel sleepy.

A2 Some over-the-counter medications contain depressant ingredients that may cause drowsiness.

B1 It is important to be aware of the potential side effects of depressant drugs before taking them.

B2 Certain prescription medications classified as depressants can have a calming effect on the nervous system.

C1 Individuals with a history of substance abuse may be more susceptible to the addictive qualities of depressant drugs.

C2 The misuse of depressant substances can have serious consequences on both physical and mental health.

Examples of depressant in a Sentence

formal Alcohol is a central nervous system depressant that slows down brain function.

informal I heard that Xanax is a depressant, so be careful with it.

slang I can't believe he's still taking those downers, they're such strong depressants.

figurative The rainy weather has a depressant effect on my mood.

Grammatical Forms of depressant

past tense

depressed

plural

depressants

comparative

more depressant

superlative

most depressant

present tense

depresses

future tense

will depress

perfect tense

have depressed

continuous tense

is depressing

singular

depressant

positive degree

depressant

infinitive

to depress

gerund

depressing

participle

depressed

Origin and Evolution of depressant

First Known Use: 1601 year
Language of Origin: Latin
Story behind the word: The word 'depressant' originated from the Latin word 'depressantem', which is the present participle of 'deprimere' meaning 'to press down'.
Evolution of the word: Originally used in the medical field to describe substances that lower physiological or nervous activity, the term 'depressant' has evolved to also refer to substances that depress the central nervous system, leading to sedation and reduced alertness.