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

The pop star, who had been in South America for a Horan concert, had traces of alcohol, cocaine and a prescription antidepressant in his system when he died.

From Los Angeles Times

Prosecutors said that a toxicology report showed that Mr. Payne had cocaine, alcohol and a prescription antidepressant in his system.

From New York Times

“Reports to poison control, for example, have increased over the years, but it’s nothing compared to opioids or cocaine or anything like that,” Palamar told Salon in a phone interview.

From Salon

Deputy 4 searched and found what appeared to be cocaine and psilocybin mushrooms.

From Los Angeles Times

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

Related Words

• coke
• crack
• dope
• poison
• stimulant