Drugs
/drʌɡz/
Definitions
3 meaningsA substance used in medicine, or any substance that affects the structure or function of the body.
/drʌɡ/
A substance used in medicine or other chemical substances.
The patient was given a new drug to help control their blood pressure.
💡 Simply: Imagine you're sick. A drug is like a special medicine that helps your body get better, or a substance which can change the way your body works. Like when you take a painkiller for a headache!
👶 For kids: A medicine that helps you feel better when you're sick.
More Examples
The pharmaceutical company is developing a new drug for treating Alzheimer's disease.
Many prescription drugs can have side effects.
How It's Used
"The doctor prescribed antibiotics to fight the infection."
"Researchers are developing new drugs to treat cancer."
A substance used for illegal or recreational purposes, often with addictive properties.
/drʌɡ/
A controlled or illegal substance used recreationally.
The police raided the house and found a stash of illegal drugs.
💡 Simply: Think of certain substances people use to feel a certain way, and they can be really addictive and dangerous. Some of these are illegal.
👶 For kids: Something you should never put in your body if it's not medicine, because it can be very dangerous.
More Examples
She is struggling with drug addiction and needs help.
The dangers of illegal drugs are widely publicized.
How It's Used
"The police are cracking down on drug trafficking in the area."
"Drug addiction can have devastating consequences on a person's life."
To administer a drug to someone or something, often secretly.
/drʌɡ/
To administer a drug to someone or something.
The vet drugged the cat before performing the procedure.
💡 Simply: To give someone a drug. Imagine a doctor giving you medicine.
👶 For kids: To give someone medicine.
More Examples
She was accused of drugging her husband.
The guards drugged the prisoner to keep him quiet.
How It's Used
"The anesthesiologist drugged the patient before the surgery."
"The politicians were accused of drugging the public with empty promises."
Idioms & expressions
drug dealer
A person who sells illegal drugs.
"The police arrested a known drug dealer."
drug-free
Not using illegal substances.
"The school is promoting a drug-free environment."
drug test
A test to detect the presence of illegal drugs in a person's body.
"Employees are often required to pass a drug test."
From Middle English *drogge*, likely from Middle Dutch *droge* ('dry'), referring to dried herbs used in medicine or as a source of chemicals. The term evolved to encompass various medicinal and recreational substances.
Originally referred to dried plants used in medicine and alchemy.
Memory tip
Think of a 'drug' as something that can change your body, either for good (medicine) or harm.