opiate
US /ˈoʊ.pi.ət/
UK /ˈoʊ.pi.ət/
1.
a drug derived from or related to opium, used medically to relieve pain (e.g., morphine, codeine).
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The doctor prescribed an opiate for her severe pain.
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Long-term use of opiates can lead to addiction.
2.
something that calms or soothes, often in a way that prevents action or thought.
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Television can be an opiate for the masses, distracting them from real issues.
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His comforting words were an opiate to her troubled mind.
1.
to make someone calm or inactive, especially by giving them an opiate or something that has a similar effect.
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The doctor had to opiate the patient to control his severe pain.
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Some argue that excessive entertainment can opiate the public, making them less engaged in politics.