# psychoactive

/sˌaɪkəʊˈæktɪv/ (UK) · CEFR C1 · Adjective

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/psychoactive
Updated: 2026-05-20

## Definition

describes a substance that changes how your mind works, usually by making you feel different or more alert. You use this word for things like coffee, tea, or medicine that affect your brain.

For teachers: relating to or capable of affecting the mind or mental processes. Often used to describe substances that alter consciousness or perception.

## Examples

- Caffeine is a mild psychoactive substance found in coffee.
- The researcher studied how different psychoactive compounds affect the brain's ability to process visual information.
- While many plants contain psychoactive alkaloids, only a few have been cultivated for their medicinal properties rather than their recreational effects.

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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.