Sedative
/ˈsɛd.ə.tɪv/noun
A drug or other substance that calms, relieves anxiety, or induces sleep.
Did you know?Sedative is built on the same ancient root as sedentary and session, all tracing back to the idea of “sitting” — a linguistic reminder that calming can begin with being forced to stillness.
Etymological Timeline
Latin
Latin
sedāre
“to calm, settle, allay”
Latin
Latin
sēdēs
“a seat, sitting place”
Old French
Old French
sedatif
“soothing, calming”
Late Middle English
English
sedatif
“calming or soothing”
Modern English
English
sedative
“a substance that calms or induces sleep”