A drug or other substance that affects mood or behavior and is consumed for non-medical purposes, especially one sold illegally. noun
The police arrested him for possession of narcotics.
Narcotics can be highly addictive and dangerous if abused.
A drug that relieves pain and induces drowsiness, stupor, or insensibility, often used in a medical context. noun
The doctor prescribed a narcotic to help manage the patient's post-surgery pain.
Narcotics are sometimes necessary for severe pain relief, but they must be used cautiously.
Relating to or denoting narcotics or their effects or use. adjective
The narcotic effects of the medication were noticeable within an hour.
He was charged with narcotic trafficking across state lines.