LSD

noun

ˌel-(ˌ)es-ˈdē 

: a semisynthetic illicit organic compound C₂₀H₂₅N₃O derived from ergot that induces extreme sensory distortions, altered perceptions of reality, and intense emotional states, that may also produce delusions or paranoia, and that may sometimes cause panic reactions in response to the effects experienced

called also lysergic acid diethylamide

Examples of LSD in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Handler also addressed taking LSD during her recent 50th birthday celebrations in February. —Becca Longmire, People.com, 28 Mar. 2025

It’s classified as a Schedule 1 drug like heroin and LSD, other drugs with high potential for abuse. —Meena Duerson, CNN, 25 Mar. 2025

Simply turn in, hit the accelerator after the apex, and let that capable LSD pull you round. —James Morris, Forbes, 22 Mar. 2025

Court records show James drank up to 24 beers at a party, downed some gin and also took LSD before returning to his room at Dick's house. —arkansasonline.com, 21 Mar. 2025

Word History

Etymology

borrowed from German, from Lysergsäure-Diäthylamid "lysergic acid diethylamide"

First Known Use

1950, in the meaning defined above

Kids Definition

LSD

noun

ˌel-ˌes-ˈdē 

: an illegal drug that causes abnormal sensations, extreme and changeable states of emotion, unnatural changes in the way time and space are experienced, and hallucinations and that may sometimes cause panic in response to the effects experienced

Medical Definition

LSD

noun

ˌel-ˌes-ˈdē 

: a semisynthetic illicit organic compound C₂₀H₂₅N₃O derived from ergot that induces extreme sensory distortions, altered perceptions of reality, and intense emotional states, that may also produce delusions or paranoia, and that may sometimes cause panic reactions in response to the effects experienced

called also acid, lysergic acid diethylamide, lysergide