heroin

[ her-oh-in ]

noun

, Pharmacology.

1. a white, crystalline, narcotic powder, C 21 H 23 NO 5 , derived from morphine, formerly used as an analgesic and sedative: manufacture and importation of heroin are now controlled by federal law in the U.S. because of the danger of addiction.

heroin

/ ˈhɛrəʊɪn /

noun

1. a white odourless bitter-tasting crystalline powder related to morphine: a highly addictive narcotic. Formula: C 21 H 23 NO 5 Technical namesdiamorphinediacetylmorphine

heroin

/ hĕr′ō-ĭn /

1. A white, odorless, bitter crystalline compound, C 17 H 17 NO(C 2 H 3 O 2 ) 2 , that is derived from morphine and is a highly addictive narcotic.

Word History and Origins

Origin of heroin¹

1895–1900; formerly trademark; < German Heroin < Greek hērō-, stem of hḗrōs hero + German -in -in ²; allegedly so called from the feelings of power and euphoria which it stimulates

Word History and Origins

Origin of heroin¹

C19: coined in German as a trademark, probably from hero , referring to its aggrandizing effect on the personality

Example Sentences

Although 24 states have legalized cannabis, it remains illegal at the federal level, carrying the same criminal penalties as heroin and MDMA.

From Salon

Asked about his mother's heroin addiction, the actor said it "caught her" as well as his uncle and father.

From BBC

A former soldier who became a heroin dealer is now a successful artist after finding his passion while serving a 13-year prison sentence.

From BBC

In previous decades, Dublin had been battling heroin in inner city communities.

From BBC

There are an average of 49 drug poisoning deaths weekly involving opiates - such as heroin, oxycodone, fentanyl and including synthetic opioids - across England and Wales, the latest official figures suggest.

From BBC

Related Words

• dope
• drug
• narcotic
• smack