psychoactive

[ sahy-koh-ak-tiv ]

adjective

1. of or relating to a substance having a profound or significant effect on mental processes:

   a psychoactive drug.

psychoactive

/ ˌsaɪkəʊˈæktɪv /

adjective

1. capable of affecting mental activity

   a psychoactive drug

Word History and Origins

Origin of psychoactive¹

First recorded in 1960–65; psycho- + active

Example Sentences

Ayahuasca/yagé is a psychoactive brew made from the Banisteriopsis caapi vine.

From The Daily Beast

But while the psychoactive effects are similar, Spice can be anywhere from five to 10 times more potent.

From The Daily Beast

Most bath salts contain one of two psychoactive chemicals: MDPV (also known as 3,4-Methylenedioxypyrovalerone) or mephedrone.

From The Daily Beast

In the psychoactive hierarchy of kitchen work, a high-functioning junkie beats a one-time opium eater.

From The Daily Beast

Related Words

• hallucinatory
• kaleidoscopic
• multicolored