psilocybin

noun

psi·​lo·​cy·​bin ˌsī-lə-ˈsī-bən 

: a hallucinogenic indole C₁₂H₁₇N₂O₄P obtained from a fungus (such as Psilocybe mexicana or P. cubensis synonym Stropharia cubensis)

Examples of psilocybin in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Over the course of 206 pages, Gibson tests MDMA in Hawaii and Arizona; LSD in Big Sur; psilocybin in Belize; and ayahuasca in Peru. —Brian Steinberg, Variety, 3 Dec. 2024

The package, which contained psilocybin mushrooms and marijuana products, was traced to Arroyo, officials said. —Dakota Smith, Los Angeles Times, 28 Nov. 2024

This is what experts say about taking psilocybin as an alternative. —Meghan Pryce, CNN, 22 Oct. 2024

Research shows that psychedelics like psilocybin may help treat serious mental health conditions, including anxiety, depression, and post-traumatic stress disorder. —Taylor Wilson, USA TODAY, 15 Oct. 2024

Word History

Etymology

New Latin Psilocybe, fungus genus + -in entry 1

First Known Use

1958, in the meaning defined above

Kids Definition

psilocybin

noun

psi·​lo·​cy·​bin ˌsī-lə-ˈsī-bən 

: a chemical that is obtained from a fungus and causes hallucinations

Medical Definition

psilocybin

noun

psi·​lo·​cy·​bin ˌsī-lə-ˈsī-bən 

: a hallucinogenic indole C₁₂H₁₇N₂O₄P obtained from a basidiomycetous fungus (as Psilocybe mexicana or P. cubensis synonym Stropharia cubensis)