cocaine

[ koh-keyn, koh-keyn ]
/ koʊˈkeɪn, ˈkoʊ keɪn /

noun Pharmacology.

a bitter, crystalline alkaloid, C17H21NO4, obtained from coca leaves, used as a local anesthetic and also widely used as an illicit drug for its stimulant and euphorigenic properties.

Origin of cocaine

First recorded in 1870–75; coca + -ine1

Example sentences from the Web for cocaine

British Dictionary definitions for cocaine

cocaine

cocain

/ (kəˈkeɪn) /

noun

an addictive narcotic drug derived from coca leaves or synthesized, used medicinally as a topical anaesthetic. Formula: C 17 H 21 NO 4

Word Origin for cocaine

C19: from coca + -ine 1

Medical definitions for cocaine

cocaine
[ kō-kān, kōkān′ ]

n.

A colorless or white crystalline alkaloid extracted from coca leaves, sometimes used as a local anesthetic, especially for the eyes, nose, or throat, and widely used as an illicit drug for its euphoric and stimulating effects.

Scientific definitions for cocaine

cocaine
[ kō-kān ]

A colorless or white crystalline alkaloid extracted from coca leaves. Cocaine is sometimes used in medicine as a local anesthetic, especially for the eyes, nose, or throat. It is also widely used as an illicit drug for its euphoric and stimulating effects. Chemical formula: C17H21NO4.

Cultural definitions for cocaine

cocaine

A drug derived from the leaves of a shrub in South America that has an intoxicating effect on the body and can result in dependency if frequently used. Cocaine is used medically as a local anesthetic.

notes for cocaine

Cocaine use constitutes a major drug problem in the United States.