diazepam

[ dahy-az-uh-pam ]

noun

, Pharmacology.

1. a benzodiazepine, C 16 H 13 ClN 2 O, used for alleviation of anxiety and tension, as a hypnotic, a muscle relaxant, and an anticonvulsant, and in alcohol withdrawal.

diazepam

/ daɪˈæzəˌpæm /

noun

1. a chemical compound used as a minor tranquillizer and muscle relaxant and to treat acute epilepsy. Formula: C 16 H 13 ClN 2 O

diazepam

/ dī-ăz′ə-păm′ /

1. A drug, C 16 H 13 ClN 2 O, used in the treatment of anxiety and as a sedative, muscle relaxant, and anticonvulsant.

Word History and Origins

Origin of diazepam¹

First recorded in 1960–65; (benzo)diazep(ine) + -am (of uncertain origin)

Word History and Origins

Origin of diazepam¹

C20: from di- ¹+ azo- + ep ( oxide ) + -am

Example Sentences

Kinkade had died of “acute ethanol and diazepam intoxication”—alcohol and Valium.

From The Daily Beast