nootropic

American  

[noh-uh-trop-ik, ‐-troh-pik] / ˌnoʊ əˈtrɒp ɪk, ‐ˈtroʊ pɪk /

adjective

1. (of a drug or other substance) capable of enhancing memory, concentration, or other cognitive functions and of preventing cognitive decline.

   Each capsule contains six different nootropic substances.

---

noun

1. Also called smart drug.  a drug or other substance that enhances memory, concentration, or other cognitive functions.

   The effectiveness, and safety, of certain nootropics remain debatable.

Etymology

Origin of nootropic

First recorded in 1970–75; < Greek nóo(s) “mind” + -tropic ( def. )

Example Sentences

Impossibrew also adds its "proprietary social blend", a mix of nootropic herbs designed to imitate the feeling of relaxation induced by traditional beer.

From BBC • Feb. 15, 2024

Most studies have looked at nootropic compounds—like L-theanine and extracts from lion’s mane mushroom, ginkgo tree, and ashwagandha root—in capsule form, so their effectiveness in drinks is unknown.

From National Geographic • Feb. 8, 2024

Speaking over the phone, the founder assured me it is absolutely not a nootropic, and is scientifically backed by neurologists from Stanford University and UT Austin.

From The Guardian • Aug. 5, 2019

Nootrobox, a San Francisco company that markets a nootropic mix of vitamins, minerals and amino acids, promotes fasting as a way to energize brain and body.

From Washington Post • Jun. 9, 2017

Sample posts on a sister forum called StackAdvice include “Good effective nootropic stack for competitive college performance?” and “Seeking stack advice for mood enhancement.”

From New York Times • Apr. 11, 2017