# meth

/ˈmɛθ/ (US)

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/meth
Updated: 2026-08-15

## Senses

### 1. illegal drug

noun · CEFR C1 · Slang · Informal

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

For teachers: 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.

### 2. medical treatment drug

noun · CEFR C2 · Informal · Technical

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

For teachers: 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.

### 3. spiced drink

noun · CEFR C2 · Archaic · Dialect

a traditional Welsh drink made from honey and spices.

For teachers: 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.

## Examples

- The police arrested him for selling meth.
- Public health officials are concerned about the rise in meth addiction across rural communities.
- The documentary explores the devastating impact that meth production has on local environments and the long-term neurological health of those who use it.

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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.