cocaine

[ koh-keyn, koh-keyn ]

noun

, Pharmacology.

1. a bitter, crystalline alkaloid, C 17 H 21 NO 4 , obtained from coca leaves, used as a local anesthetic and also widely used as an illicit drug for its stimulant and euphorigenic properties.

cocaine

/ kəˈkeɪn /

noun

1. an addictive narcotic drug derived from coca leaves or synthesized, used medicinally as a topical anaesthetic. Formula: C 17 H 21 NO 4

cocaine

/ kō-kān′ /

1. A colorless or white crystalline alkaloid extracted from coca leaves. Cocaine is sometimes used in medicine as a local anesthetic, especially for the eyes, nose, or throat. It is also widely used as an illicit drug for its euphoric and stimulating effects. Chemical formula: C 17 H 21 NO 4 .

cocaine

1. A drug derived from the leaves of a shrub in South America that has an intoxicating effect on the body and can result in dependency if frequently used. Cocaine is used medically as a local anesthetic .

Notes

Cocaine use constitutes a major drug problem in the United States.

Word History and Origins

Origin of cocaine¹

First recorded in 1870–75; coca + -ine ¹

Word History and Origins

Origin of cocaine¹

C19: from coca + -ine ¹

Example Sentences

In some countries there is even a risk they turn to illicit activities such as growing coca – the plant cocaine derives from – which has similar deforestation issues.

From BBC

“We spent the night, we did drugs together and something intimate happened,” Paiz said, noting that while he stuck to weed, Payne was allegedly doing cocaine.

From Los Angeles Times

In September, dozens of kilograms of cocaine were found in banana deliveries to four stores of a French supermarket, with police unsure who the intended recipient was.

From BBC

Payne had traces of alcohol, cocaine and a prescription antidepressant in his system in the moments before his death, Thursday’s statement said.

From Los Angeles Times

The public prosecutor's office said toxicology tests revealed traces of alcohol, cocaine and a prescription antidepressant in his body.

From BBC

Related Words

• coke
• crack
• dope
• poison
• stimulant