gateway drug

[ geyt-wey druhg ]

noun

1. any drug, as a stimulant or tranquilizer, whose use may lead to the use of more dangerous or addictive drugs such as heroin.

gateway drug

noun

1. a recreational drug such as cannabis, the use of which is believed by some to encourage the user to try stronger drugs

Word History and Origins

Origin of gateway drug¹

First recorded in 1985–90

Example Sentences

My gateway drug was a set reminiscent of an ice cream truck.

From Los Angeles Times

Work is being overseen by their drugs liaison officer Det Con Nick Burnett, who calls Spice a "gateway drug".

From BBC

Otani’s book is a great “gateway drug” to the world of crime fiction!

From Los Angeles Times

But in fashion — using Vivienne Westwood as his gateway drug — Valencia found it all: history, politics, nature, curiosity and, ultimately, freedom.

From Los Angeles Times

Indeed, being seen as "too" smart can hurt you with the GOP base, which suspiciously eyes intelligence as a gateway drug to rationality.

From Salon