English Reference
noun

meth

n.
US /ˈmɛθ/ meth

  1. 01 C1 Advanced SlangInformal

    a short name for methamphetamine, a very strong and addictive illegal drug.

    a slang clipping for methamphetamine, a potent central nervous system stimulant often found in crystalline form.

    Simple

    The police arrested the man for selling meth behind the old warehouse.

    In context

    Public health officials have noted a significant rise in hospital admissions related to meth addiction over the last fiscal year.

    Usage

    Usually uncountable when referring to the substance generally.

    crystal methicecrank
  2. 02 C2 Proficiency InformalTechnical Medicine

    a short name for methadone, a drug used to help people stop using stronger drugs like heroin.

    an informal clipping for methadone, a synthetic opioid used medically as an analgesic and in the treatment of narcotic addiction.

    Simple

    He has been on meth for three months to help with his recovery.

    In context

    The clinic provides daily meth doses as part of a supervised harm-reduction programme for long-term users.

    Teacher's tip

    In medical contexts, this is a common shorthand, but 'methadone' is preferred in formal writing to avoid confusion with methamphetamine.

  3. 03 C2 Proficiency ArchaicDialect Cooking

    a traditional Welsh drink made from honey and spices.

    a variety of spiced mead, historically associated with Wales.

    Simple

    The old book described a recipe for meth flavored with herbs and honey.

    In context

    The historian noted that the production of meth was a significant local industry in medieval Welsh border towns.

    meadmetheglin

Despite Toronto’s streets already struggling with open drug use, meth, crack and fentanyl, Progress Toronto wants more of the same failed policies.

Toronto Sun· 24 Aug 2026

Iranian seizures of meth increased from 30,393 kilos in 2022 to 40,453 kilos in 2025 .

UN News· 14 Aug 2026
This entry
Level C2 · Proficiency
Frequency Frequent
Updated