hard drug

noun

, Pharmacology.

1. an addicting drug capable of producing severe physical or psychological dependence, as heroin.

Word History and Origins

Origin of hard drug¹

An Americanism dating back to 1965–70

Example Sentences

It increases punishment for repeated theft and hard drug offenses, including deadly fentanyl.

From Los Angeles Times

It would increase punishment for theft and hard drug offenses and impose required treatment for repetitive criminal addicts.

From Los Angeles Times

Under Proposition 36, a judge could sentence someone possessing any amount of hard drugs, if the person has already been convicted of two or more drug-related offenses, to up to three years in state prison.

From Los Angeles Times

In 2014, voters passed Proposition 47, which reduced penalties for theft and hard drug possession.

From Los Angeles Times

Chalamet once famously revealed the advice that Leonardo DiCaprio, one of the few movie stars left, gave him early in his career: "No hard drugs and no superhero movies."

From BBC

Related Words

• anesthetic
• dope
• heroin
• merchandise
• opiate
• opium
• painkiller
• sedative
• tranquilizer