benzodiazepine

noun

ben·​zo·​di·​az·​e·​pine ˌben-zō-dī-ˈa-zə-ˌpēn 

: any of a group of aromatic lipophilic amines (such as diazepam and chlordiazepoxide) used especially as tranquilizers

Examples of benzodiazepine in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Many veterans are desperate for alternatives to traditional medications such as opioids and benzodiazepines — drugs that come with high risks of dependency, overdose and dangerous side effects. —Laura Hartman, The Orlando Sentinel, 12 June 2025

Lorazepam, which is also known by its brand name Ativan, is a benzodiazepine drug commonly taken to treat conditions like anxiety and insomnia. —Verywell Health, 3 June 2025

The report also stated that the benzodiazepines clonazepam and 7-aminoclonazepam were in her system at the time of her death. —Janelle Ash, FOXNews.com, 3 June 2025

Other sleep aids—such as diphenhydramine (Benadryl), zolpidem (Ambien), or benzodiazepines like Ativan—can be more forceful at helping users fall asleep. —Bailey Berg, AFAR Media, 23 May 2025

Word History

Etymology

benz- + di- + az- + -epine (from hepta- + -ine entry 2)

First Known Use

1934, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for benzodiazepine

• carbamazepine

Medical Definition

benzodiazepine

noun

ben·​zo·​di·​az·​e·​pine ˌben-zō-dī-ˈaz-ə-ˌpēn 

: any of a group of aromatic lipophilic amines (as diazepam and chlordiazepoxide) used especially as tranquilizers