Definition

A type of drug that comes from barbituric acid and is used to calm the nervous system, often as a sleep aid or to relieve anxiety.

Example

The doctor prescribed a barbiturate to help the patient sleep better at night.

Conversation

Have you ever heard of barbiturate medications?

Yeah, I think they're used as sedatives, right?

Exactly! They can help people sleep, but they can be addictive too.

That's true. It's important to be careful with those kinds of drugs.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Barbiturate is derived from 'barbituric' (from the compound 'barbituric acid', which is a derivative of urea) and the suffix '-ate' (indicating a chemical salt or ester). The term refers to a class of drugs derived from barbituric acid, which act as central nervous system depressants.

Memory Tip

Think of 'barbituric' as the base for these drugs, and remember that 'barbiturate' refers to a type of drug derived from it, often used to calm or sedate.

Visually Confused Words