methamphetamine
UK: ˌmeθ.æmˈfet.ə.miːn | US: ˌmeθ.æmˈfet.ə.miːn
n. a powerful, highly addictive stimulant drug that affects the central nervous system, chemically similar to amphetamine but with stronger effects.
methamphetamine = meth<short for "methyl"> + amph<from "amphetamine"> + etamine<variant of "amine">
- meth <methyl>: Refers to the methyl group (–CH₃) added to the amphetamine structure.
- amph <amphetamine>: Derived from "alpha-methylphenethylamine," the chemical name for amphetamine.
- etamine <amine>: Indicates the presence of an amine group (–NH₂), a common feature in stimulant drugs.
Etymology Origin:
The word "methamphetamine" is a compound of "methyl" + "amphetamine," reflecting its chemical modification of amphetamine. The prefix "meth-" highlights the added methyl group, which intensifies the drug's potency and lipophilicity (ability to cross the blood-brain barrier). The suffix "-amine" ties it to its broader class of psychoactive compounds. Developed in the early 20th century, the name mirrors its synthetic origin and pharmacological kinship to amphetamine.
Methamphetamine abuse can lead to severe health consequences, including heart damage and psychosis.
The police seized a large quantity of methamphetamine in the raid.
Unlike prescription amphetamines, methamphetamine is often produced illegally in clandestine labs.
Long-term use of methamphetamine may result in cognitive decline.
The documentary exposed the devastating social impact of methamphetamine addiction.