# sedative

/ˈsɛdətɪv/ (US) · /sˈɛdətˌɪv/ (UK)

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

## Senses

### 2. having a calming effect

adjective · CEFR C1 · Formal

tending to make someone feel calm, relaxed, or sleepy.

For teachers: tending to soothe or tranquilize; describing a substance or influence that reduces functional activity.

- The warm milk had a sedative effect on the restless child.
- The therapist noted that the rhythmic nature of the breathing exercises had a profound sedative influence on the patient's nervous system.

Usage: Often modifies nouns like 'effect', 'quality', or 'influence'.

## Examples

- The doctor prescribed a mild sedative to help me sleep.
- Before the MRI scan, the nurse administered a sedative to ensure the patient remained still during the procedure.
- While the patient required a sedative to manage her anxiety, the medical team monitored her vital signs closely to ensure the medication did not cause excessive respiratory depression.

---

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.