# drugstore

/ˈdɹəɡˌstɔɹ/ (US) · /dɹˈʌɡstɔː/ (UK) · CEFR A2 · Noun

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/drugstore
Updated: 2026-05-09

## Definition

a shop where you can buy medicine, beauty products, and small household items. In many countries, this is also called a pharmacy.

For teachers: a retail establishment where medicines are dispensed and various other goods, such as toiletries and cosmetics, are sold. Primarily North American in usage; corresponds to 'chemist' or 'pharmacy' in other English-speaking regions.

## Examples

- I need to stop at the drugstore for some aspirin.
- The local drugstore stays open late so people can pick up their prescriptions after work.
- While modern drugstores often resemble small supermarkets with their wide array of convenience goods, their core function remains the professional distribution of pharmaceutical products by licensed staff.

## Usage notes

- Commonly used in American English; in British English, 'chemist' or 'pharmacy' is preferred.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.