methamphetamine

American  

[meth-am-fet-uh-meen, -min] / ˌmɛθ æmˈfɛt əˌmin, -mɪn /

noun

Pharmacology.

1. a central nervous system stimulant, C 1 0 H 1 5 N, used clinically in the treatment of narcolepsy, hyperkinesia, and for blood pressure maintenance in hypotensive states: also widely used as an illicit drug.

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methamphetamine British  

/ ˌmɛθæmˈfɛtəmɪn /

noun

1. a variety of amphetamine used for its stimulant action

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methamphetamine Scientific  

/ mĕth′ăm-fĕt′ə-mēn′,-mĭn /

1. An amine derivative of amphetamine, C ₁₀ H ₁₅ N, used in the form of its crystalline hydrochloride both as a central nervous system stimulant in the medical treatment of obesity and attention deficit hyperactivity disorder and illicitly as a recreational drug.

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Etymology

Origin of methamphetamine

First recorded in 1945–50; meth- + amphetamine

Compare meaning

How does methamphetamine compare to similar and commonly confused words? Explore the most common comparisons:

• methadone vs. methamphetamine

Example Sentences

Border Patrol seizures represent a minority – between 13% and 19% – of the total weight of seizures at the border for cocaine, fentanyl, heroin and methamphetamine.

From Reuters • Aug. 9, 2023

Luis Carrillo, the Bronstein family’s attorney, said there was only a “trace” amount of methamphetamine in the victim’s system and argued that the officers’ actions were the primary cause of death.

From Los Angeles Times • Mar. 29, 2023

Dr. David Fowler, a former chief medical examiner for the state of Maryland, said the fentanyl and methamphetamine in Floyd's system, and possible carbon monoxide poisoning from auto exhaust, were contributing factors in his death.

From Fox News • Apr. 15, 2021

The county medical examiner ruled the death a homicide caused by a combination of the officers’ use of force, the presence of fentanyl and methamphetamine in Mr. Floyd’s system and his underlying health conditions.

From New York Times • Feb. 10, 2021

The Pierce County Medical Examiner determined Ellis died of oxygen deprivation due to physical restraint and ruled his death a homicide, and listed methamphetamine intoxication and heart disease as contributing factors.

From Seattle Times • Jun. 23, 2020