drug - definition and synonyms

noun [countable] 

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  1. 1
    an illegal substance that affects someone physically or mentally when they take it (=put it into their body)
    take/use drugs:

    She had never taken drugs in her life.

    be on drugs (=be affected by drugs):

    He acted as if he was on drugs (=had taken drugs).

    1. a.
      [only before noun] involving drugs or taking drugs
      drug addict/user/dealer:

      Intravenous drug users are at risk from the HIV virus.

      drug trafficking/smuggling:

      The government has pledged to fight drug smuggling.

  2. 2
    a substance that you take to treat a disease or medical problem

    Your doctor may prescribe drugs for this condition.

    a new anti-cancer drug