sedate
sih-DAYT
/sɪˈdeɪt/
To calm someone or an animal by giving them a drug; (adj) calm, dignified, and unhurried.
In a veterinary context, it usually refers to the act of chemically calming an animal for a procedure.
The story behind the word. From the Latin 'sedare,' which means 'to settle' or 'to make sit.' It is related to the word 'sedentary' and 'sit.' To sedate an animal is literally to make it 'sit down' and be still.
Word relationships
- tranquilize: Often implies a stronger or more forceful calming, like with a dart.
- agitate: To make nervous or restless.
- stimulate: To increase activity or alertness.
Word family
- sedation (noun): The state of being sedated.
- sedative (noun): A drug taken for its calming or sleep-inducing effect.
Collocations
- heavily sedate
- mildly sedate
- sedate for surgery
Example sentences
- "The technician had to sedate the nervous dog before the X-rays could be taken." Pre-surgery.
- "Some owners choose to sedate their pets during long flights to reduce anxiety." Travel advice.
Memory hook
When you sedate an animal, it 'SITS' down and stays 'DATE' (calm). To settle down.
When not to use
As an adjective, it is rarely used for animals and more often for atmospheres or people.
Fun facts
- The adjective 'sedate' was used for centuries to describe a calm person before the verb form for drugging was invented.
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