sedative
UK: ˈsɛdətɪv | US: ˈsɛdətɪv
n. a drug or substance that promotes calm or induces sleep.
adj. having a soothing, calming, or sleep-inducing effect.
The word "sedative" traces back to the Latin verb sedare, meaning "to settle" or "to calm," derived from sedere ("to sit"). The suffix -ative (via Old French -atif) denotes a tendency or function, forming adjectives. Thus, "sedative" literally means "tending to calm" or "having a settling effect," reflecting its medical use to alleviate agitation or induce relaxation.
The doctor prescribed a mild sedative to help her sleep.
Chamomile tea has natural sedative properties.
The patient felt drowsy after taking the sedative.
Sedative medications should be used cautiously.
The soft music had an almost sedative effect on the anxious crowd.