antidepressant

[ an-tee-di-pres-uhnt, an-tahy- ]

adjective

1. of or relating to a substance that is used in the treatment of mood disorders, as characterized by various manic or depressive affects.

noun

1. Also called energizer, psychic energizer. any such substance, as a tricyclic antidepressant, MAO inhibitor, or lithium.

antidepressant

/ ˌæntɪdɪˈprɛsənt /

noun

1. any of a class of drugs used to alleviate depression

adjective

1. of or relating to this class of drugs

antidepressant

/ ăn′tē-dĭ-prĕs′ənt,ăn′tī- /

1. A drug used to prevent or treat depression.

Word History and Origins

Origin of antidepressant¹

First recorded in 1960–65; anti- + depressant

Example Sentences

“I didn’t have a backup antidepressant, and I was terrified.”

From Salon

Wragg had struggled with his mental health in the past and had already stopped taking his antidepressants, which he considers a factor in the suicidal thoughts which led him to be admitted to hospital.

From BBC

Her parents moved Lucy and the baby into their home, she was prescribed antidepressants and at around the time her daughter turned one she began to recover.

From BBC

Yet millions of women have decided to continue taking antidepressants in pregnancy because untreated mental illness also poses risks.

From Salon

"Going in the water is exposing me to antibiotics, antidepressants and other medication I haven't opted to take," she added.

From BBC