Cocaine
/koʊˈkeɪ.ɪn/noun
A powerful stimulant drug derived from the leaves of the coca plant.
Did you know?The coca plant, from which cocaine is derived, was revered by ancient Andean cultures for its stimulant properties, often used in sacred rituals and celebrations.
Etymological Timeline
Spanish Colonial Period
Spanish
coca
“The leaves of the coca plant, used for chewing by indigenous peoples for energy.”
19th Century
Spanish
cocaina
“Derived from 'coca', referring to the alkaloid extracted from coca leaves.”
1855
German
Kokaine
“A term used in the scientific community to describe the isolated compound from coca.”
1884
English
cocaine
“Adopted into English as the name for the purified stimulant from coca, becoming associated with both medicinal and recreational use.”