inhalant

[ in-hey-luhnt ]

noun

1. a medicine, allergen, or other substance that is inhaled.
2. any volatile substance, as nitrous oxide, butyl nitrite, toluene, gasoline, or paint thinner, capable of being inhaled, sometimes abused for its intoxicating effect.
3. inhaler.

adjective

1. used for inhaling.

inhalant

/ ɪnˈheɪlənt /

adjective

1. (esp of a volatile medicinal formulation) inhaled for its soothing or therapeutic effect
2. inhaling

noun

1. an inhalant medicinal formulation

Word History and Origins

Origin of inhalant¹

First recorded in 1815–25; inhale + -ant

Example Sentences

“This is about holding companies that are profiting off selling an addictive inhalant accountable.”

From Seattle Times

Smith was allegedly driving while under the influence of a combination of a controlled substance and an inhalant, according to the indictment.

From Seattle Times

Mr. Carter had a “known history of substance abuse,” including abuse of inhalants, that had led to multiple interactions with the police.

From New York Times

They were checking on him after he had been seen with an inhalant on an Instagram live video, according to a police report included in the autopsy findings.

From BBC

The company developed, manufactured and marketed a wide array of branded and generic prescription drugs, including eye drops, injectables, oral liquids, inhalants and nasal sprays, according to its website.

From Seattle Times

Related Words

• opiate