# opioid

/ˈəʊpɪˌɔɪd/ (UK) · CEFR C1 · Noun

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/opioid
Updated: 2026-05-06

## Definition

a type of strong medicine used to reduce pain. These drugs can be very addictive and are often controlled by strict laws.

For teachers: any of a class of substances that produce morphine-like effects by binding to specific receptors in the nervous system. Often used for pain relief but associated with high potential for dependence.

## Examples

- The doctor prescribed a weak opioid for his back pain.
- Public health officials are working to reduce the number of opioid prescriptions to prevent addiction in the community.
- While synthetic opioids provide essential relief for patients with chronic pain, their potency requires careful clinical supervision to mitigate the risk of respiratory depression and long-term dependency.

## Usage notes

- Commonly used in the plural when referring to the class of drugs; often functions as a modifier in phrases like 'opioid crisis' or 'opioid epidemic'.

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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.