gateway drug

[geyt-wey druhg]

noun

1. any drug, as a stimulant or tranquilizer, whose use may lead to the use of more dangerous or addictive drugs such as heroin.

gateway drug

noun

1. a recreational drug such as cannabis, the use of which is believed by some to encourage the user to try stronger drugs

Word History and Origins

Origin of gateway drug¹

First recorded in 1985–90