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recreational drug
noun
: a drug (such as cocaine, marijuana, or methamphetamine) used without medical justification for its psychoactive effects often in the belief that occasional use of such a substance is not habit-forming or addictive
Examples of recreational drug in a Sentence
Recent Examples on the Web
Here are three mind-blowing facts about dolphins that showcase their astonishing intelligence, as well as their peculiar behaviors—from recreational drug use to echolocation abilities that could rival technology on submarines.
—Scott Travers, Forbes, 12 Oct. 2024
Nicotine, alcohol, and recreational drug use can also cause trouble sleeping.18
Hormonal Changes and Pregnancy
Trouble sleeping is more common in women, especially during menopause.
—Carley Millhone, Health, 10 Oct. 2024
Thanks to being both accessible and cheap, nitrous has been used as a recreational drug for decades, from Grateful Dead concerts in the ’60s to raves in the ’90s.
—Oshan Jarow, Vox, 7 Dec. 2018
Drug Use, Delaware Chancery Court A shareholder suit alleges that Musk’s use of illicit recreational drugs threatens Tesla’s business, including by apparently influencing his sometimes erratic behavior online.
—Bloomberg, The Mercury News, 1 Oct. 2024
See all Example Sentences for recreational drug
These examples are programmatically compiled from various online sources to illustrate current usage of the word 'recreational drug.' Any opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.
Word History
First Known Use
1967, in the meaning defined above
Time Traveler
The first known use of recreational drug was
in 1967
Dictionary Entries Near recreational drug
Cite this Entry
“Recreational drug.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/recreational%20drug. Accessed 31 Oct. 2024.
Medical Definition
recreational drug
noun
rec·re·a·tion·al drug
ˌrek-rē-ˈā-sh(ə-)nəl-
: a drug (as cocaine, marijuana, or methamphetamine) used without medical justification for its psychoactive effects often in the belief that occasional use of such a substance is not habit-forming or addictive
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