Word
meth
/ˈmɛθ/
Definitions
01illegal drug
C1 · Advanced Uncountable noun Slang · Informal
n. a short name for methamphetamine, a very strong and addictive illegal drug.
n. a slang clipping for methamphetamine, a potent central nervous system stimulant often found in crystalline form.
“The police arrested the man for selling meth behind the old warehouse.”
“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.
02medical treatment drug
C2 · Proficiency Uncountable noun Medicine Informal · Technical
n. a short name for methadone, a drug used to help people stop using stronger drugs like heroin.
n. an informal clipping for methadone, a synthetic opioid used medically as an analgesic and in the treatment of narcotic addiction.
“He has been on meth for three months to help with his recovery.”
“The clinic provides daily meth doses as part of a supervised harm-reduction programme for long-term users.”
Teaching tip
In medical contexts, this is a common shorthand, but 'methadone' is preferred in formal writing to avoid confusion with methamphetamine.
Synonyms
03spiced drink
C2 · Proficiency Uncountable noun Cooking Archaic · Dialect
n. a traditional Welsh drink made from honey and spices.
n. a variety of spiced mead, historically associated with Wales.
“The old book described a recipe for meth flavored with herbs and honey.”
“The historian noted that the production of meth was a significant local industry in medieval Welsh border towns.”
Synonyms
Real-World Examples
“Despite Toronto’s streets already struggling with open drug use, meth, crack and fentanyl, Progress Toronto wants more of the same failed policies.” “Iranian seizures of meth increased from 30,393 kilos in 2022 to 40,453 kilos in 2025 .” - Exam level
- CambridgeCambridgeCambridge English QualificationsThe exam suite from Cambridge University Press & Assessment, from A1 Movers up to C2 Proficiency. The benchmark names double as CEFR labels.C2 ProficiencyIELTSIELTSInternational English Language Testing SystemThe 0–9 band test co-owned by the British Council, IDP, and Cambridge. Used for university entry, work, and migration.8.5–9.0TOEFL iBTTOEFL iBTTest of English as a Foreign Language, Internet-Based TestETS's academic English test, the standard route for US university admissions. Scored 0–120, with a 1–6 scale since 2026.1–6 scale: 6.0114–120
- Frequency
- Frequent
- Level
- C2 · Proficiency
- Updated
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