Narcotic
/nɑːrˈkɒtɪk/noun
A substance that induces sleep or dulls the senses, often used to relieve pain.
Did you know?The term 'narcotic' comes from the Greek word 'narkōtikos', which means 'to make numb', highlighting its ancient connection to the art of inducing altered states of consciousness.
Etymological Timeline
Ancient Greek
Greek
νάρκωσις (narkōsis)
“A state of numbness or insensibility.”
3rd Century
Greek
νάρκων (narkōn)
“Inducing numbness; related to the plant 'narcissus' which was believed to have numbing properties.”
Late Latin
Latin
narcoticus
“Pertaining to stupor or sleep.”
14th Century
Old French
narcotique
“Referring to substances causing sleep or stupor.”
Modern English
English
narcotic
“A substance that dulls the senses or induces sleep, often used in medicine.”
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