Pronunciation: [ˈə͡ʊpɪˌe͡ɪt] (IPA) 
The word "opiate" is spelled with the letter "i" after the letter "o", which can be confusing for non-native English speakers. The IPA phonetic transcription for this word is /ˈəʊpiət/, which shows the correct pronunciation. The sound represented by the letter "o" is the "oh" sound, while the letter "i" represents the "ee" sound. This word refers to a group of drugs that act on the nervous system to relieve pain and induce sleep.
Opiate is a noun that refers to a type of drug derived from opium or containing properties similar to opium. These substances are commonly used for their analgesic (pain-relieving) and sedative effects. Opiates include drugs such as morphine, codeine, and heroin. Opiates are known for their ability to bind to specific receptors in the central nervous system, primarily the mu-opioid receptors, which are responsible for regulating pain perception, mood, and pleasure sensations.
Medically, opiates are often prescribed to alleviate severe pain following surgical procedures or injury, or for chronic and terminal illnesses. Despite their medicinal use, opiates are also prone to misuse and addiction due to their potential to induce euphoria and their effects on the reward system in the brain. Over time, regular use of opiates may lead to tolerance, requiring higher doses for the same effect, and physical dependence, leading to withdrawal symptoms when usage is halted.
The abuse of opiates poses significant risks to individuals and society, as it can lead to addiction, adverse health effects, and social issues. Opiate addiction has become a public health crisis in various parts of the world, with numerous efforts being made to prevent abuse, increase awareness, and provide treatment options for those affected. The term "opiate" is frequently used interchangeably with "opioid," although the latter is a broader term that encompasses both naturally occurring opiates and synthetic opioids.
Any preparation of opium.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
• Any preparation or medicine which contains opium for inducing sleep or quiet.
• Inducing sleep; causing rest; narcotic.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
The word "opiate" is derived from the Latin word "opiatus" which means "administered with opium" or "something resembling opium". This Latin term comes from the Greek word "opion" meaning "poppy juice" or "opos" meaning "juice". The use of opiates can be traced back to ancient times, where opium derived from poppy plants was used for its sedative and pain-relieving properties.
